Political news is making me miserable. Is it wrong to tune out?

“Your Mileage May Vary” is an advice column that provides a unique perspective on addressing moral dilemmas. To submit a question, you can complete an anonymous form or send an email to sigal.samuel@vox.com. Here is a reader’s question for this week, which has been condensed and revised for clarity:

Recently, I have been avoiding news about the current political situation to support my mental well-being, and it has been beneficial. While I am still somewhat informed through social media and shows like John Oliver, I have reduced my exposure overall. Instead, I have focused on my hobbies and connecting with those around me, which has been really helpful. However, I feel a sense of guilt about this. I see others emphasizing the importance of taking action and not being apathetic. My dilemma is whether my decision to take a break is playing into what those in power want. I understand that it may be challenging to contribute effectively if my mental health is suffering, but I also recognize that the world doesn’t stop for me.

Dear Attention Overload,

Your question revolves around the concept of attention. While attention is commonly viewed as a cognitive resource, it also serves as an ethical resource. It is a crucial element for ethical actions to take place. French philosopher Simone Weil once said, “Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” She highlighted the importance of deeply focusing on others to truly understand their experiences, which can lead to compassion and drive meaningful action.

Paying genuine attention requires sacrificing your sense of invulnerability, as it demands acknowledging the shared vulnerability of humanity. In today’s world, our attention is constantly bombarded by information overload, making it challenging to devote proper attention to important matters. Additionally, modern technology has further fragmented our focus, impacting our moral attention and ability to respond appropriately to critical issues.

To navigate this information overload, it is essential to reclaim “attentional sovereignty” by intentionally directing your attention to what truly matters. While limiting news consumption is beneficial, it is crucial to establish a structured approach. Identifying reliable news sources and setting specific times for information intake can help in managing attention effectively. Furthermore, investing attention in activities that promote personal growth and empathy, such as engaging in hobbies and practicing compassion, can enhance your ability to engage meaningfully with the world around you.

Practicing compassion while consuming news can be a transformative experience. Techniques like Tonglen meditation can help you connect with the suffering of others and cultivate feelings of warmth and empathy. By training your mind to stay present with others’ pain and enhancing your moral attention, you can develop a deeper understanding of the world and contribute positively to society.

Consuming news in moderation and approaching it with compassion can lead to a more fulfilling and enriching experience. By practicing empathy and engaging with the world around you, you can make a meaningful impact and foster a sense of interconnectedness with others.