Final answer:
The decision to focus on sports and gossip news highlights the media's preference for profit-driven content that aligns with audience interests, resulting in gatekeeping that can lead to a less informed public and greater societal division.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decision of news directors to prioritize coverage on sports and gossip news over international news speaks to a guiding factor of the media which is largely influenced by audience interests and the pursuit of higher ratings and profits. News media act as a gatekeeper, choosing stories based on what they believe will keep viewers engaged, while often neglecting in-depth coverage on government, public affairs, or presenting a wide range of views on policy issues. This focus on entertainment and sensationalism can lead to a narrow perspective on current events and skews the public's understanding of what is important on both the national and international stage.
Modern media consumption has shifted towards narrowcasting, where people select news sources that align with their existing beliefs, reinforcing their perspectives and often limiting exposure to diverse viewpoints. The result is a customized news experience, where stories about serious political issues or international events may be overlooked in favor of content that aligns with personal and cultural interests. This commercial strategy by media outlets can contribute to a less informed public and a more divisive society.