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While some news outlets have been trying to put the H1N1 flu virus in perspective, others just can't resist a good panic story. They've been contacting New York University Sociology Professor Eric Klinenberg asking him to talk about the widespread panic in reaction to the flu. Only problem, there is no widespread panic. Klinenberg explains.
In 1976, President Gerald Ford authorized the National Influenza Immunization Program to inoculate every American against an impending swine flu epidemic. But despite government predictions of one million dead, a single confirmed fatality was recorded by the end of the year. Science writer Patrick Di Justo remembers the last time the media developed a fever over a mild case of the flu.
Even though 100 days is a totally meaningless measurement of time, the media couldn't resist the marker as a moment to comment on the administration's accomplishments and failures thus far. We couldn't resist either. Elizabeth Goitein of the Brennan Center for Justice shares with us her transparency report card for the Obama administration’s first 100 days.
To the untrained eye, the White House’s media strategy for the first 100 days has been relatively simple – put the President in front of the cameras every chance you get. But L.A. Times reporter Peter Wallsten explains there’s more to it than that.
Some president's first 100 days are rockier then others. President Clinton's for instance were marked by controversy. Dee Dee Myers was the first press secretary at the Clinton White House. She says she felt a little envious as she watched the Obama transition.
With every incoming administration the press struggles to establish its sources, often using what’s called a ‘beat sweetener’ – a flattering article or portrait that endears the reporter to their chosen official. Michael Calderone of Politico.com helps us recognize the journalistic valentines in this season of the beat sweetener.
Throughout journalism there have been the inevitable errors of omission, errant mistakes and occasional misstatements of fact. And then there have been the flat-out, large-scale flagrant lies. Eric Burns, author of All The News Unfit to Print, reintroduces us to a number of prominent journalists who, finding the news lacking, simply made it up.
Highlights from Past Shows
While some in the media wondered if Obama flip-flopped when it comes to prosecuting Bush Administration officials who authorized torture, the White House tried to get its media message straight ... all without actually using the T-word. Columbia University law professor and Harper's Magazine contributing editor Scott Horton explains why the Administration, and some members of the media, are backing away from "torture."
Fox News’ relentless promotion, some might say co-sponsorship, of this week’s tax day tea parties made us wonder: did Fox News cover the events or help to create them? Brooke takes a look at the coverage.
On the Media is funded by The Bydale Foundation, The Ford Foundation, The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and the Overbrook Foundation.
