Walter Cronkite… once celebrated as “the most trusted man in America.” What would Walter say about being called “the enemy of the people,” or say about”fake news” claims?
Is journalism the enemy of the people? Of course not. Is news ever fake? Very rarely. But in today’s constant clutter of information, journalism has indeed changed… in both positive and negative ways.
- It’s important to recognize that many journalists are committed to finding and reporting the truth.
- Professional journalists traditionally have tried to maintain a “balance” between opposing ideas.
- But the 24/7 digital/social media revolution has permanently upset this balance.
- First, the “enemy of the people” charge has actually increased the number of readers, listeners, and viewers, making many large media organizations significantly more profitable.
- The result has been an increase in ads, beautiful anchors, star reporters, clever opinion writers… with their headlines mostly determined by politicians, government officials, sports heroes, and Hollywood celebrities.
Two solutions to consider: 1. Find local and national journalists and news media organizations you can trust… learn from their expertise and choose your actions accordingly. 2. Support core media literacy education in public schools, colleges, and community groups. As always, truth is best found in wisely led education.
Larry D. Lauer 
News media is not the enemy of the people! We need the quality media to balance power. Unfortunately, I have had too many situations In my professional career in which the media was downright dishonest. Because of my experiences, I look at all media with a jaundice eye. I wish there was an outlet in which I could trust what is said.
Follow the money…money corrupts.
Eric Hyman Collegiate Athletics Consultant 979-777-2299 Ehyman76@gmail.com
Sent from my iPad
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