I love history. I do not enjoy the news. I read/watch the news only as necessary.
However, allowing in history and the news does not mean that I allow such input to permeate my sense of well-being unless I let it. I struggled for a short time with (a perceived conflict between) my love of thrillers/horror/historical sagas and my desire for a personally peaceful life. I ultimately realized that the two are not mutually exclusive.
There is a part of us that deeply craves stories. This has always been the case and probably always will be (Joseph Campbell's work can teach you about stories/myths and the role that they play in all of our lives). Stories are generally not about peace and hand-holding; if they are truly only about that, they are simply boring. We look to history, stories, and (sometimes) the news to satisfy our need for the dramatic and our fascination with the human condition ... and how it all relates to us.
Otherwise, we should shun most movies, books, plays, etc. ... including the greats (such as Shakespeare).
So take in your entertainment, your history, and (sometimes) your news ... and realize that these things quench your creative thirst and your need to connect with the world.
But these things do not need to become your world.
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