Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Walter Cronkite



Walter Cronkite was well before my time. Like almost everyone, i have seen replays of his broadcast announcing the assassination of JFK. It was a man, behind a desk, reading the news. Like everything else regarding technology and communication, the way we get our news has changed. The 24 hour news cycle employs every type of new technology; interactive maps, use of social media, even holograms. Unfortunately, the telling of the news suffers. Opinion is rife in what is supposed to be an impartial profession.
Politicians make what can only be described as stupid comments. Rick Santorum includes his opinion that everyone having the opportunity to go to college is for "snobs". Now, depending on the news channel you frequent, I have heard him described as a true American, a real American, a regular joe. The option of the viewer to make their own opinion has been taken away. i could go on all day about Santorum.
The controversy over the shooting of Trevon Martin has turned into questions about the criminal intent of everyone in a hoodie, questions about why black on black crime is under-reported, and a slew of opinions on self defense and Florida's "stand your ground" law.
I'm tired of the news, I don't want to be riled up or outraged to increase ratings. I can't imagine Cronkite spending time talking about cute puppies. I want the news.

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