To blog or not to blog (cont.)
Personally, I love blogging. I think it offers a lesson in human nature. In some, it brings out the worst; in others, it gives them a voice that they are often too timid to express for fear of public humiliation. Blogging also amounts to instant satisfaction. When I read the blogs of the newspaper in my hometown, I see a lot more participation but I think that is because their blogs have been around a lot longer and have been promoted more. The Sun seems to be making significant strides in increasing participation and that will only increase the quality of the blogs. Sometimes when I read the comments on the blogs I am dismayed at the level of hatred and the lack of compassion. But one has to remember that most would not write those things if they were not feeling them. The anonymity of blogs certainly encourages trolls, but it also allows readers to vent in a safe forum. Editorial pages have existed for as long as there have been newspapers. But as anyone knows who has submitted multiple letters to the editor of any newspaper, it is often hard to get a letter printed, either due to space limitations or due to the fact that the letter doesn't meet the content criteria of that editor (I'm referring to a different newspaper Steve!). With blogging there are few restrictions. One can disagree with the editor and still get his or her opinion published. And usually that opinion is published instantly or within a few minutes which encourages more debate. Debate is always a good thing. Sharon
I wanted to pull this comment to the top of the board, because it's very consistent with my own evolving view of blogs. I've admitted before, I was a reluctant player when it came to blogs for may of the same reasons cited by yesterday's anonymous poster. While I may continue to bristle at some of the comments that are posted, I also see a richer debate emerging. Some find that threatening. More and more, I see it as necessary.
Comments
You know the great thing about Anonymous is Especially Public Employees can get involved with safety or anyone else. And if You want to put Your real name thats OK to.
Posted by: Bill Tuck Jr | September 9, 2008 8:09 PM
Mr. Lambert,
If conversations on the blog were civil as they are with you or Sharon (who's views I don't necessarily agree with but I do respect that she treats everyone in a civil respectful manner) maybe you would have more meaningful participation. I would also ask you to ponder this: Yesterday Robert Rogers included a post which made a rather large leap regarding the background of the term "Operation Phoenix." Why was this necessary? It was totally Robert's opinion and not tied to any relevant facts. His response was that he was making a lite comment. I really believe he went too far with that, it smacks of trying to keep the controversy going. If a blogger had come up with this, it would be different. But the Sun reporter? I hope you will consider what I am saying. And you seem to offer your constant opinions of the City's issues. Shouldn't you take a more neutral position (unless you are writing an actual published editorial?) Please keep in mind that due to the position and influence you hold, people will give more weight to your "opinions" and confuse your "opinions" with news. More thoughts for conversation. Thanks.
Posted by: anonymous too | September 9, 2008 9:30 PM
Thanks. Good discussion. I think what you're seeing here is the continuing evolution of media. We sometimes forget that the earliest newspapers in this country were essentially opinion sheets. In the generations that followed, the concept of objectivity emerged, though newspapers kept editorials, columnists and the like. The rules, and expectations, began changing again with the emergence of FoxNews, MSNBC and the blogosphere. As a result, the line between opinion and perspective has become increasingly fuzzy.
Earlier today, I posted an item on the failures of Operation Phoenix. Some may see that as opinion. I see it as perspective - insight gained from observing Phoenix like a hawk these past two years.
I'm also increasingly comfortable with the notion of the local newspaper helping to lead a discussion on topics important to the community. Mynisha's Circle was an example of that. We were criticized by some, but from my perspective, the growth in gang violence in our community could no longer be ignored and the newspaper was uniquely positioned to help shine a light on that issue.
Blogs have taken all of this to a whole new level. Where it eventually lands, I haven't a clue. In the meantime, it's fascinating to watch and be a part of.
Posted by: Steve Lambert | September 9, 2008 9:59 PM