And even if it is true, it benefits me and my family exactly how?

Seems to me that the only people benefited are the people who do the research and report the findings - which they base mostly on IF. But the sensationalism works just the same. Especially if they can make us feel like we are part of the "we."

The whole thing is kinda like a Nigerian email scam that is using Government to promote itself through universities and foundations that are supported by Government funding.