Thursday, October 2, 2008

Biased Moderator For Tonight's Debate??

There's been quite a bit of talk about tonight's vp debate and the alledged bias of the moderator, Gwen Ifill. Now normally I am the first to join the attack against media bias. I think there are a lot of reporters who have a very obvious bias that comes through in their reporting and it infuriates me. In this case, however, I'm not(yet) convinced this is a big deal. First of all, let's face it, everyone is biased to some degree. Journalist are supposed to remain inpartial in there reporting. That doesn't mean they can have opinions, just that they should keep those opinions to themselves. Secondly, from what I've read about the book that Ifill is writing, I'm not sure that it as much as a pro-Obama book as it's being portrayed by the right wing. From what I've read about it, the book is more about black Americans throughout history and how far they have come. She covers many black leaders from both parties. I think that she could be an impartial moderator even if she admires one canidate more that the other. Will she? We'll just have to wait and watch tonight.

6 comments:

A New Yorker said...

I dunno if you're correct about her. If someone is biased they will skew questions in such a way to help one candidate over the other. It can be so subtle that many won't realize it. But yes we have opinions. But it's when there is an agenda behind those opinions we have to speak out. I guess we just have to wait and see.

tiffany1377 said...

I guess I just think that since everyone has an opinion, there really isn't anyway to have a complete unbiased moderator. I just hope she conducts herself like a journalist should and leaves her opinions at home. You're right...only tonight will tell. I'm really interested in seeing what happens tonight!!

Aleta said...

Might have to tape the debate and list out the questions for each and see where the bias falls. It will be interesting, as she is sure to know that people are watching her closely.

tiffany1377 said...

Aleta: That's a good idea.

I heard a political analyst once say that he preferred to read the transcript of a debate/speech rather than watch it live. I can see how that would help, but I'm afraid you would miss too much...voice inflection, sarcasm, facial expressions.

Lilly said...

I watched it today (Ausstralian time) and she seemed fine except Biden seemed awfully familiar with her. It will be interesting to see what you think of the debate. thanks for dropping by my blog, by the way.

tiffany1377 said...

Lilly: Thanks for stopping by! I watched the debate and will be commenting soon.

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