King, You are correct about the difference between US and other advanced countries reporting of news. But, I do not think that is attributable in any way to lawyers and lawsuits. It is something else.
News in America has become competitive for viewers. This is a function of the many 24 hour a day news channels. The bigger the audience share, the more revenue. Many people tend to view news from an ideological perspective. They like to watch "news" which they agree with or which is reported from a perspective that condemns what they dislike and which glorifies what they like. If the news source hits a demographic then that boosts the viewers and, viola, more revenue. Unfortunately, this exists not only in the "talking heads" news bunch, but also in the "hard" news group. In truth, they all report what they think will get the most viewers.
Lawsuits for slander and liable are very difficult and rarely successful in the US. And, if it boosted viewers by any significant amount, it would be worth it. The "dumbing down" of the news is all business.
By the way, what is happening with the Prime Minister and Parliament in Canada now that the Prorogue is about over? I see no news on that here.
Regards, Jake
Last edited by Jakearoo; 01/19/09 12:26 AM.
