Hard news focuses on recent factual events involving politics, crime, disasters or other high-impact topics reported in an objective, event-oriented manner. Soft news covers more human interest or lifestyle topics like entertainment or less serious crime through a more interpretive, analytical style. Journalism is important as it informs citizens, acts as a bridge between authorities and people, and upholds freedom of expression and democratic values by giving voice to all members of society. News sources can include firsthand accounts, but reporters should cross-check facts from multiple authoritative sources.