Do you think letters to the editor in newspapers have an impact?

[PJMcK]

9. I was being a bit snarky - I'm sorry

Actually, I think that Letters To The Editor serve the purpose of illustrating how some people think about current events. I just don't think they will change anyone's perspective.

I must ask: Do you really think newspapers reach more people than the internet? The newspaper industry has been shrinking over the past 20 years and even the big papers have seen their circulation diminish. I read recently that Gannett is reducing the frequency of many of its formerly daily publications, (they publish more than 100 papers including USA Today). This doesn't sound like a growing business. Meanwhile, more and more people get their news online. I would argue that Facebook has more influence on more people than The NY Times or The Washington Post.

Additionally, I can't agree with your characterization of how different people utilize the internet. It seems to me that all of the people online have just as many individual reasons for being there. I'm not certain there is any "normal" use of the internet.

In any event, enjoy your afternoon!