there are problems with the media, yes, but there are also good people there. Note, I have been in media hell lately, down on the AZ border, so have really really seen both sides up close and personal (and gave a 20 minute interview to National enquirer under the name "Carl Smith" while eating at a fish fry in the camp cafeteria last Friday).Quote:
Originally Posted by RoadRunner
One thing people need to realize is that much of the media which you love to hate, has a story "pre-written" before attending an event. They simply research what they can, write a story that will be 90% of it's final form, and then "look for a name". That is why people need to be SO careful when dealing with a reporter. Red herring after red herring question will be tossed out, which is nothing that will be used but simply left on the cutting room floor, and toss out a baited question now and again, which are the REAL meat they are looking for. It is always wise to ask upfront what story/questions they are looking for, and if you feel uncomfortable at all, simply don't talk with them (if you have that option).
However, you really do not want to "shut it down". What you would end up with in a short time, would be state run media (not that we don't have the state running it to some extent now). For a good look at state run media, see China, Iran, or better yet North Korea. I do not think anyone here would wish that upon us. And with press freedom, you certainly DO get the good AND the bad, but at least the good is in there (even if buried at times).
H.