It is this reporter's opinion that we in the print media have a golden opportunity, a real challenge to share with our readers the world and the nation in which we live.
The question is: Are we using these moments to make this a better citizenry?
In one reporter’s opinion, we have covered worldwide terror and the wars that go with it, international banking, money laundering, crime, jobs, anchor babies, proper care for the young and the elderly, and the international challenge of immigration.
But what about others in the media, namely talk-show hosts?
I, for one, have come to an obvious conclusion: I cannot compete with the current shock, schlock, titillating conversation pervasive among talk radio provocateurs. Most offer smut while I and others like me, discuss government, ethics, religion, medicine, the law, and other challenging subjects, pointing our efforts toward a better, stronger America.
Too many others use the airwaves to titillate with trivia and tabloid journalism. In the scramble to get the rating (listening audience), they peddle sex, pornography, and four-letter words that would put Lenny Bruce to shame.
It seems talk-show hosts are reverting back to the old journalistic axiom, “If it bleeds, it leads” to ensure high ratings.
They violate what you and I have known to be decency. We have a whole new breed of talk-show hosts who confront their guests with overspeak — talk over — confrontation. Obviously they have never learned that their guests should be treated with respect in the quest for the truth.
When you invite someone into your home, you welcome them and try to make them feel comfortable since they are your guest. The talk-show hosts should treat guests on their radio and television shows with civility as well.
I have witnessed radio and television hosts in verbal combat with a guest. The procedure is strange. The guest is asked a question and before they get the opportunity to respond, the host butts in and takes over the subject, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere for the guest as well as the audience.
The audience is numbed by the sheer rudeness, constant interruptions, shouting, and verbal combativeness of the interviewer. The exchange is often so heated and brash that the audience is provided with little information regarding the story itself. In an attempt to gain an audience, the interview often becomes a shouting match.
Recently, outgoing British Prime Minister Tony Blair said we are all being dragged down by the way the media and the public interact. Blair says today’s media hunts in packs, tearing people and reputations to bits, that the media often sacrifices accuracy and objectivity in its bid for attention.
Are we in the media to conclude that by our actions journalistic ethics have fallen by the wayside?
If this be true, what a helluva way for me to conclude 73-years of journalistic endeavor.
You take it from there! It is your turn to talk back.
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