2007-12-18-皮尤-Gas_Prices,_Disasters_Top_Public_s_News_Interests_In_2007_7页_43kb

News Release Summary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Top News Stories of 2007:

• The rising price of gasoline led the most closely followed news among Americans, with 52% paying very close attention during May 20-25.
• Man-made and natural disasters dominated the top stories, including the Virginia Tech shootings (45%), California wildfires (40%), Minnesota bridge collapse (41%), and Utah miners' rescue (36%).
• Public interest in the Iraq war peaked early in 2007, with 39% following it most closely in late January, but gradually declined, with only 28% tracking it by December.

Comparison of News Coverage and Audience Interest:

• Media coverage often lagged behind public interest. For example, the Walter Reed military hospital scandal, though followed by 20% of the public, received only 6% of media coverage.
• Conversely, stories like Iraq policy debates received significant coverage (e.g., 36% during the fall 2007) but lower public interest.
• Gas prices attracted mass public interest but minimal media coverage (4% of the news hole during their peak week).

Key Findings:

• The News Interest Index tracked weekly public engagement, revealing a disconnect between media focus and audience priorities.
• Virginia Tech shootings received the greatest media coverage, accounting for 51% of the national newshole in April 2007.
• Gas prices and recalls of products (e.g., toys, pet food) were high in public interest despite limited media attention, highlighting audience engagement with consumer and economic issues.

Relevance:
This report underscores the evolving landscape of news consumption, where audience-driven interest in affordable energy and consumer safety contrasts with media emphasis on political and international narratives.