the world, or part of it

A few weeks ago, I was watching CNN Sunday Morning when the topic of objective journalism came up in a round table discussion of topics. I believe that when reporting a story, a journalist should keep his/her opinion to himself, but there are times when we should feel some strong opinions coming from the news desk. Jeff Jarvis of Buzz Machine came on and strongly supported the side of subjective journalism. It was quite funny that he came on the typical, relaxed Sunday morning show with strong opinions while pushing for strong opinions on static-viewed shows.

Those who opposed him, and supported objectivity, had the good point that the reporter is meant to tell the facts of the story and let the people draw their own opinions. The media has enough sway as it is currently, and expressing even more opinions could have a major effect on the country. Since the media is typically seen as liberal (except for a certain channel), it could push the majority of the country to the left side of the aisle after these past few years of conservatism. Objectivity is something that was always looked at for the perfect newsman, but it is being questioned and now viewed as an old quality. With the internet and its eclectic group of billions, one doesnt have to search too far for an opinion, so should the mainstream media show opinion?

Being objective is still something I prize when I try to make a post, but it is not something I break my back to achieve. After all, this is my blog and I belive that the few people that do come on here dont just want to here me reporting the news. They come on different blogs to hear people comment on the news, not just deliver it. It is and will continue to be an issue in the newsroom and all over for a while, but I believe that the future of news lies in hearing everyones opinion, not just the facts.

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With the pressures of school, I had to take a rest from blogging for a few weeks. I hope eveyone forgives me as I re-adjust to my old, blogging habits.