For those exulting in the ongoing misfortunes of Rupert Murdoch (and I readily and enthusiastically admit to being one of them), Rick Salutin has a thoughtful column in today's Star warning us that we really have little room for self-righteousness when it comes to the state of journalism in Canada.
Offering a brief historical overview of the craft, Salutin calls into question the traditional notion of journalism as a noble calling. Considering the decline in news quality we have witnessed over the past several years, especially in CBC television news, I think the columnist is once more spot on.
Thanks for pointing out the Salutin column. Murdoch has nothing on our Post and Sun media. Journalism has largely become a political operation, controlled for the most part by conservatives. It has become their 24/7 PR arm. By using this media to constantly scream about the nonexistent 'liberal media' with exaggerated claims of victimization, conservatives have realized that the message is more important than the politics. In effect, the message of conservative politics has become the media, especially in Canada and the UK.
ReplyDeleteI think you are absolutely correct, Jymn, and with the CBC going out of its way to prove its bona fides to the conservative crowd, we, as taxpayers have to subsidize blowhards like Kevin O' Leary, a one-note caricature if there ever was one.
ReplyDeleteAs well, the control that the conservative elements exert on traditional media makes alternative media increasing important as a counterbalance and a source of useful information to help inform the critical thinker.