Journalism

Like Ann Coulter I am upset at the state of Modern Journalism. Why just today, I opened my newspaper of choice (largely because I get to look at it for free) and there on the front page was a multi-column opinion piece/editorial masquerading as journalism. It looked at an issue facing the American people and clearly argued one side of the issue.

Of course my newspaper of choice is the Wall Street Journal. One the front page one sees this article.



So in case you missed it it is the position of the Wall Street Journal that Bush would increase the efficiency of the system, but might not because he would be attacked for championing the rich over the poor. Gosh, do you think so? If Bush pushes for a repeal of the estate tax, a tax break for investment earnings, and accelerating the income tax reduction already in effect, some might see that as putting the interests of the rich over the poor.

If this article were a presentation of the issues, an attempt to give both sides of the story, than perhaps it would belong on the front page. But it doesn't. For example no mention is made of the opposing argument that exploring income taxes without an analysis of payroll taxes (Social Security) and sales taxes paints an unfair picture. When payroll taxes and sales taxes are factored in, our tax system flattens out quite a bit. Now I certainly appreciate that there are reasons (and not all of them selfish) that conservatives want to limit this discussion to income tax, but to not even address the question makes it clear that the Wall Street Journal has made up its mind on this issue.