Spring Break
Journalists need to return to real newswriting
George Maynard
Issue date: 3/16/09 Section: Commentary
Why does it take a comedian to hold supposed "journalists" accountable for their actions? For anyone who doesn't watch "The Daily Show with Jon Stewart" regularly, here's a quick recap of his one-man crusade for what he considers responsible and reasoned reporting.
In 2004, Stewart appeared on the CNN show "Crossfire." In the ensuing interview, Stewart called the show's hosts - Tucker Carlson and Paul Begala - "partisan hacks." When Carlson and Begala tried to defend themselves, Stewart told them that they were "hurting America" by engaging in yelling matches instead of reasonable debate. Stewart then added that "Crossfire" was to honest reporting what the WWE is to competitive wrestling. As Carlson proceeded to question Stewart about his own journalistic integrity in an attempt to turn the tables, Stewart retorted that CNN should not be looking to Comedy Central for cues on journalistic integrity. Basically, the show ended with the CNN hosts making complete jerks of themselves. Fast-forward three months; the new president of CNN cancelled "Crossfire," citing Stewart's critique as one of the reasons for it.
Here we are, four years later, and Stewart is at it again. This time, his mud slinging was directed at CNBC for its lack of investigative reporting into the current financial crisis. Jim Cramer, the host of CNBC's "Mad Money," took offense and lambasted Stewart on several shows. Stewart's response was to invite Cramer on for an interview, where he was subjected to film clip after film clip displaying his blatant hypocrisy and lack of integrity. Cramer left the interview visibly shaken and vowing to make amends by providing the American people with honest financial reporting.
Both of these incidents are all well and good. Americans certainly could use fewer partisan hacks ranting and raving - yes Rush, that means you should shut up - and more honest reporting. However, all this begs the question, why does a comedian have to ask journalists in this country to do their jobs? It's not just Jon Stewart who's had to force reporters to be honest, either.
In 2004, Stewart appeared on the CNN show "Crossfire." In the ensuing interview, Stewart called the show's hosts - Tucker Carlson and Paul Begala - "partisan hacks." When Carlson and Begala tried to defend themselves, Stewart told them that they were "hurting America" by engaging in yelling matches instead of reasonable debate. Stewart then added that "Crossfire" was to honest reporting what the WWE is to competitive wrestling. As Carlson proceeded to question Stewart about his own journalistic integrity in an attempt to turn the tables, Stewart retorted that CNN should not be looking to Comedy Central for cues on journalistic integrity. Basically, the show ended with the CNN hosts making complete jerks of themselves. Fast-forward three months; the new president of CNN cancelled "Crossfire," citing Stewart's critique as one of the reasons for it.
Here we are, four years later, and Stewart is at it again. This time, his mud slinging was directed at CNBC for its lack of investigative reporting into the current financial crisis. Jim Cramer, the host of CNBC's "Mad Money," took offense and lambasted Stewart on several shows. Stewart's response was to invite Cramer on for an interview, where he was subjected to film clip after film clip displaying his blatant hypocrisy and lack of integrity. Cramer left the interview visibly shaken and vowing to make amends by providing the American people with honest financial reporting.
Both of these incidents are all well and good. Americans certainly could use fewer partisan hacks ranting and raving - yes Rush, that means you should shut up - and more honest reporting. However, all this begs the question, why does a comedian have to ask journalists in this country to do their jobs? It's not just Jon Stewart who's had to force reporters to be honest, either.
Viewing Comments 1 - 2 of 2
Webby
posted 3/16/09 @ 11:45 AM EST
I agree. Less of the celebrity gossip, (there's plenty of places to get it, if you enjoy reading that drivel) and more of actual stories that affect peoples' lives in a more serious manner, apart from "OMG, who's dating who!"
orlando
posted 3/16/09 @ 1:55 PM EST
I agree as well. I dont know about you but I have found "news" really lacking since the elections. It is getting worse as each day passes. I use to watch a good amount of CNN, MSNBC, Fox, etc. (Continued…)
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