Arne,

I agree with your summary of the E&Z readings. I have always been skeptical of the arguments that violence in the media are largely responsible for violence in our society. I like the example that the author used that, though not necessarily disproving the theory, at least giving us evidence supporting the rejection of the theory.

I also agree with Mark's reply to this. The media have been constantly demonized. Though this is occasionally warranted, for the most part the media serve a useful purpose. Without it, how would anybody know anything about the world? We would revert to a time when we got our information from horsemen and runners (and that wasn't exactly the best solution - just ask poor Mr. Marathon in ancient Greece).

The mass media are biased. There is no question. Try to name three news reporters who are open members of an LGBTQ group. Ain't gonna happen. Unfortunately, though, the media are the best solution we currently have. Perhaps some day the Internet will get reliable and trustworthy, but that day certainly hasn't yet come. For now, all we can do is watch and read.

Britt