Re: The Media, Aboriginal People and Common Sense

Before becoming an educator, I was a journalist. So, when I read this article, I was inclined to look back at my experience as a national reporter.

At one point, the author mentions that journalist often have to rely on second hand sources. I would add that time is often very scarce and there is a lot of pressure to deliver “the news” first. This is no excuse for misinformation, of course; but it’s reality too.

After all, newspapers and many other communication channels are commercial media.

On the other hand, the public is also in a hurry and few can take the time to research complicated issues.

In the end, the information is … superficial; we make judgments based on “bumper stickers”, slogans, repetition and stereotypes.

From the points of view of the reporters and the public:

Is the lack of well researched information due to laziness? Is it justified by the frenetic pace of our lives? Is it caused by apathy?

References:

Harding, Robert,“The Media, Aboriginal People, and Common Sense.”