In a speech made last month at the commencement ceremony at the University of Michigan, President Obama spoke about trends in news media coverage and consumption. Stating that being outrageous and contentious was considered necessary to gain media attention, he cautioned that civil discourse was a necessary ingredient of a functional democracy, and encouraged listeners to try to understand opposing points of view. 

"Still, if you're somebody who only reads the editorial page of The New York Times, try glancing at the editorial page of The Wall Street Journal once in a while," said the President. 

"If you're a fan of Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh, try reading a few columns on the Huffington Post Web site. It may make your blood boil; your mind may not be changed. But the practice of listening to opposing views is essential for effective citizenship and essential for our democracy," he added. 

As the President noted, "We've got politicians calling each other all sorts of unflattering names. Pundits and 'talking heads' shout at each other. The media tends to play up every hint of conflict, because it makes for a sexier story, which means anyone interested in getting coverage feels compelled to make their arguments as outrageous and as incendiary as possible." 

He went on to describe the fragmentation taking place in the media landscape and the opportunities presented by the various media channels available, including blogs, Web sites and cable channel television. 

Urging the class of 2010 to continue to experience diversity through media, he said that, "If we choose to actively seek out information that challenges our assumptions and our beliefs, perhaps we can begin to understand where the people who disagree with us are coming from." He cited the need for an educated citizenry and a vibrant and thriving news business that is separate from opinion makers and talking heads.