Comments on: Nothing Strange About Media Assumptions

By: Jim Satterfield

Jim Satterfield — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 15:20:16 +0000

Don’t equate ignorant with stupid. Of course the public is ignorant of some things. We are all ignorant of something and probably many things. It’s not like they have the time to study everything and learn everything. Many don’t even read the news and some are even rather proud of the fact that the only sources of news they use are ones that inherently can’t have the depth of written news, whether it be on paper or online.

By: Bones_708

Bones_708 — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 07:19:10 +0000

I thought it was very clear what I disagreed with. Michael may be a great writer and he may be making a important point, But this is not journalism class and his intro so turned me off that I could not get past it to be able to consider the point he was trying to make. I don’t critique writing style or content very often. I think there are some contributions that are a horror to read so I don’t. My issue here is the “we know better” theme and how the public is “ignorant”. Of course according to ?Jim if I don’t have a journalism degree I guess I should just shut up and read what I’m told .

By: Joe Gandelman

Joe Gandelman — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 06:40:38 +0000

I worked with Michael on the San Diego Union and he was and is a HIGHLY respected writer, columnist, writing coach and teacher. It helps if you disagree with something if you outline what specifically you disagree with rather than just attack the writer. Just attacking usually means people will stop reading what you write. If you go into specifics you can start an intelligent discussion. I welcome Michael and we all feel VERY lucky to have his posts here on TMV, since we often write about media issues. He is one of the very best in the business and was involved in at least five projects nominated for Pulitizers.

By: Jim Satterfield

Jim Satterfield — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 05:02:33 +0000

Bones’ reaction mirrors far too many people. He assumes that the general public knows everything. How this miracle occurs he does not explain. Might I suggest that he ignore the requirement for a medical degree and just stop someone on the corner the next time he is ill. Or perhaps if he finds himself in need of legal representation he could just go to the nearest homeless shelter. Sheeesh.

By: Bones_708

Bones_708 — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 02:39:06 +0000

I had trouble believing this. That someone can be this obtuse and self congratulatory at the same time is bad enough, but then to condescendingly point out that we (the public) are just to ignorant or we would know better?

I realize that was just the first part of the post and just used to make what may be a valid point, but getting past it is just more than I want to do.