BoSacks Speaks Out: Printed magazines are often falsely maligned as relics of the past

Printed magazines are often falsely maligned as relics of the past, doomed to be replaced by digital media. However, the rumors of its death are not the truth. Print magazines have many advantages that make them resilient, relevant, and valuable in the modern world. I argue that printed magazines are not dying, but rather adapting and thriving in a changing and still developing niche media landscape.

One of the main reasons why printed magazines are not dying is that they offer a unique and trustworthy experience for readers. Unlike online media, which can be easily manipulated, fabricated, or hacked, printed magazines have a higher level of credibility and authority. Readers can actually trust the information and opinions they find in print magazines, as they are usually backed by rigorous research, editing, and fact-checking. Print magazines are also rated as the single most trusted news source, according to a survey by Two Sides.

Another reason why printed magazines are not dying is that they provide a tangible and immersive experience for readers. Unlike online media, which can be distracting, overwhelming, or superficial, printed magazines allow readers to focus, engage, and enjoy the content they consume. Readers can hold, flip, and browse through the pages of a print magazine, which creates a sense of connection and ownership. Print magazines also appeal to the senses, as they have different textures, colors, and designs. Print magazines can also stimulate the memory and imagination of readers, as they are more likely to remember and recall what they read in print than online.

A third reason why printed magazines are not dying is that they cater to the needs and preferences of different audiences and niches. Unlike online media, which can be generic, homogeneous, or mass-produced, printed magazines can offer more diversity, specificity, and customization. Readers can choose from a variety of print magazines that suit their interests, hobbies, lifestyles, or identities. Print magazines can also create a sense of community and belonging among readers, as they can share, discuss, and relate to the content they read. Print magazines can also reach audiences that are not well-served by online media, such as older generations, rural populations, or people with limited internet access.

In conclusion, printed magazines are not dying, but rather adapting and thriving in a changing media landscape. They offer a unique and trustworthy experience for readers, a tangible and immersive experience for readers, and a diverse and customized experience for readers. Print magazines have many advantages that make them resilient and relevant in the modern world. Therefore, print magazines are not relics of the past, but rather treasures of the present and the future.