How do you know if you're in the know?
- Dana Kerigan
- Jan 29, 2023
- 4 min read
Have you ever wondered how news is shared throughout the world? I recently discovered the Two-step flow theory.

WOW! This has definitely changed the way I gather and share the news. This theory explains how news is spread from media sources to the public through opinion leaders. In this blog post, I will explain how I have applied the two-step flow theory to my news-gathering routines and how I share the news with others.
So, what the heck is the two-step flow theory anyway?
Ah, the news. It's everywhere! But did you know that it doesn't always come to you the same way? There's actually a theory behind how we get our news and how it influences us: it's called the two-step flow theory.
Umm . . do you mean this??
No, not exactly . . . Simply put, the two-step flow theory states that information flows from the media to opinion leaders and then to the general public. In other words, media outlets share the news with a select few people who act as gatekeepers and influencers - these people then relay the news to their respective followers, who take it from there.
To illustrate this concept, let's say there's a new restaurant opening up in town. The restaurant owners would likely announce their news to local media outlets first. Then, influential people in the community - like food bloggers, local celebrities, or city officials - would be informed and share the news with their followers on social media. Eventually, the news would reach the general public, who, in turn, would visit the restaurant.
This is essentially how the two-step flow theory works - and it's something I've taken into consideration when it comes to my own news-gathering routine and how I share news with others.
How I apply the two-step flow theory to my news-gathering routine
The two-step flow theory explains how information flows from the media to the public. This theory suggests that information is passed on through a two-step process: first, media outlets disseminate news, and then, opinion leaders interpret and shape the news in their own unique way before passing it on to the public.
I apply the two-step flow theory to my news-gathering routines by following a few simple steps.
First, I seek out reputable and reliable news sources. I make sure to check multiple sources and compare their versions of the same story before deciding which one is the most accurate.
Second, I look for opinion leaders who can interpret the news for me meaningfully. This could be someone with specialized knowledge of the topic or someone who can provide a unique insight into current events.
Lastly, I share the news with my network of friends and family, explaining what I found and how I interpreted it.
By taking this two-step approach to gathering and sharing news, I have understood current events better and informed those around me about what is happening in the world.
For example, when news of a celebrity breakup is trending, I make sure to look into what really happened by reading multiple news sources instead of just spreading gossip. Then, instead of just passing along a simple headline, I explain why this breakup is significant and how it affects our everyday lives.
What did you think about the BREAKUP? Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen
0%Their love was meant to last
0%It was inevitable. :(
By applying the two-step flow theory to my news-gathering routine, I can quickly and efficiently filter through all the noise and figure out what's important.
Here are some other tips to help you make the most out of your news-gathering
Follow opinion leaders in your field of interest and listen to their insights.
Consider multiple perspectives when reading a story.
Make sure to read background information before diving into a news story.
Fact-check to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Stay on top of current events, but don't let yourself get overwhelmed.
How the two-step flow theory has changed the way I share news
The two-step flow theory has revolutionized the way I share the news. Instead of relying on the traditional "broadcast" method of sharing information, I now look to multiple sources and perspectives to ensure that the news I share is comprehensive and accurate. I also look for ways to incorporate personal opinions into the news I share so as to give my readers a unique insight into current events.
For example, when I encounter an interesting news article on social media, I ensure to include a link to the original article. Still, I also add my own thoughts and analysis. This way, my readers can better understand what's happening in the world beyond what the original news story tells them. Additionally, when I share news articles from websites such as The New York Times or The Guardian, I always make sure to include additional links to related articles from other sources. This gives my readers a more rounded view of the situation.
Overall, the two-step flow theory has been instrumental in helping me share news in a more effective and meaningful way. My readers now have access to a much broader range of news sources, giving them a much better understanding of current events.
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