The Laughing Wolf

Some Good Media Discussion

Chap has been on fire of late, and has some articles you really do need to read. Start with the Ethics In America story and discussion, then go read this story on Michael Yon and Carl Prine and then read the follow-on article with Carl Prine. Mr. Prine has some serious chops as a combat reporter, but it is clear that he does not get several key points, or is deliberately avoiding them. Hard for me as a reformed reporter and current blogger to tell. I will also note that his contention that he can teach the field grade officers in charge of OPSEC all about OPSEC (not to mention all those blogs) is one of the most arrogant and absurd statements I have seen in quite some time (eclipsing even Al Gore's latest). As for me, I stand by my belief that one of the only real reporters left in Iraq is Michael Yon.

I've written on this subject before (see here and here), and may post more soon. For now, until I am over this 24/48-hour bug thing, let me simply state that the so-called Fourth Estate is acting more and more like the Guilds -- and making many of the same mistakes. In order to protect their economic interests, they are now willing to sell their souls for licensing. The problem with selling your soul is it is lost forever when you do, and if you sell it to that which you are supposed to cover and help keep honest, then all honesty is lost. Shield Law = Very Bad Idea and the death of Freedom of the Press. Fight it hard.

LW