The author fails to grasp what takes place on the internet.
By quoting one offhand remark by a Freeper-(s)he thinks she's pigeon-holed the "blogsphere". NOTHING could be farther from the facts. (Surprise, surprise!)
One of the vital tasks we perform is checking sources and sifting through information as it's presented to us via newspapers, wire services, tv etc. We also have a huge coffee shop atmosphere- we exchange views, observations and ideas about "the news".
It might surprise Antonia to learn how much BETTER INFORMED we've become by having access to information we would never have seen before the internet and cable tv. Moreover- while I enjoy editorials that agree with my thinking- I make it a point to SEEK pieces that I don't agree with. It sharpens my mind, keeps me from getting one-dimensional and helps me understand why I believe as I do on a variety of topics.
I, for one, hope the print media never dies. Far from wanting it to die, I expect over time, it will be more accurate and un-biased. That will be good for us- and vital for journalism.
"Moreover- while I enjoy editorials that agree with my thinking- I make it a point to SEEK pieces that I don't agree with. It sharpens my mind, keeps me from getting one-dimensional and helps me understand why I believe as I do on a variety of topics. "
Yes, my approach exactly. I have found this to be an extremely valuable exercise throughout my life. Without this approach I would never have been confronted by the fact that Jesus Christ claimed to be God, just for one example.
You make a great point. Also, one is encouraged to attempt to completely read and comprehend the points that are being made by a poster. As a result, we have a good grasp on the issue. Often, this forces us to read completely and to the end a piece that we might have otherwise stopped reading after the first paragraph.
People here are great, but to the chagrin of anyone who fails to read and understand before posting, they are quick to point out and poke holes in your treasured opinion or analysis.
It makes for a much more free flowing exchange of ideas which do, on occasion, ignite tempers and passions. I'll bet the only time you see that kind of free, uninihibited exchange occurring in the NY Times building is when an employee (like Jayson Blair) is being escorted off the premises by security. And even then, all the free, uninhibited exchange was coming out of his mouth.
Quite true. I also do that.