Regional disparities exist in US media coverage of archaeology research, finds study

A recent study highlights significant regional disparities in how U.S. media outlets cover archaeological discoveries, raising questions about what is deemed newsworthy. The analysis, which examined "pop-science" reporting, reveals that certain regions receive more attention than others, potentially influencing public perception and interest in archaeological research. This uneven coverage could impact which discoveries capture national attention and which remain largely unknown. The study found that coastal states, particularly those with major media hubs like New York and California, tend to dominate coverage. Meanwhile, archaeological findings in the Midwest and other less densely populated areas often receive minimal media attention. This discrepancy may be driven by the location of media organizations, audience interests, and the perceived relevance of discoveries to broader historical narratives. Researchers suggest that this imbalance could affect funding and support for archaeological projects, as media visibility often plays a critical role in attracting resources. By bringing these disparities to light, the study calls for a more equitable approach to reporting on archaeological research, encouraging media outlets to broaden their focus and bring attention to a wider array of discoveries across the United States.

— Authored by Next24 Live