In a recent and widely discussed piece for The Atlantic, George Packer argues that journalists face unprecedented challenges in the age of President-elect Donald Trump. He observes, “We’re living in a world where facts instantly perish upon contact with human minds.”
For those who may not be acquainted with Packer, he is an acclaimed author known for his insightful explorations of American society, including works that delve into the concept of America’s “unraveling.” As a cultural anthropologist and psychiatrist, he often presents conventional leftist viewpoints through dramatic prose that resonates with affluent progressives.
However, one of the most troubling aspects of modern journalism is its portrayal of Trump as an exceptional threat to democracy. This perception has led many reporters to compromise their ethical standards in what they perceive as a necessary defense against this danger.
Contrary to Packer’s assertion about “human minds,” I would argue that people today are no less capable of discerning truth than they were before. Conspiracy theories have long been woven into the fabric of American politics. For instance, The Atlantic recently employed a writer who claims there’s substantial evidence suggesting Trump was recruited by Russian intelligence during the late 1980s and continues to act as their asset.
What distinguishes our current media landscape is not just skepticism but also an erosion of trust in traditional news outlets. Instead of adapting to the complexities introduced by social media with more rigorous and ethical journalism practices, mainstream media has taken steps that have further alienated audiences from credible reporting.
In his newsletter referencing Packer’s article, CNN’s Brian Stelter expressed concern over insufficient coverage regarding sexual assault allegations against Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth—an issue currently dominating discussions on the Left.
It’s worth noting that many Republicans appear indifferent towards these allegations; after all, they recall how previous accusations against Brett Kavanaugh received extensive coverage during his Supreme Court confirmation process—a situation many viewed as politically motivated rather than factually substantiated. The unverified claims made by Christine Blasey Ford were only part of a larger narrative filled with sensationalized accusations aimed at undermining Kavanaugh’s credibility.
Today’s legacy media seems willing to entertain nearly any conspiracy theory or unfounded claim if it targets certain individuals while simultaneously ignoring serious allegations when it suits their narrative—such as ongoing conspiracies surrounding Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito.
While I cannot speak personally about Hegseth or his character, I can point out instances like NBC News’ recent report alleging he was intoxicated at work without reaching out for comments from colleagues who might provide context or counterpoints—raising questions about journalistic integrity when stories are crafted primarily through partisan lenses.
Packer hints at this lackadaisical approach among journalists when he suggests they should focus on exposing corruption among powerful elites instead: “Instead of chasing phantoms on social media,” he writes, “journalists would make better use…by doing what we’ve done in every age: expose lies and graft.”
Yet there remains much more ground needing exploration—like scrutinizing dubious claims made by so-called experts within academia or addressing misdeeds committed within our own industry. Journalists should hold all power structures accountable—not just those aligned against them ideologically—but too often we see progressive activists masquerading as objective reporters instead.
Moreover, while giving voice to marginalized communities is important work worthy enough on its own merit; ultimately journalism must prioritize truth-telling above all else—even if it contradicts popular narratives or expectations from specific demographics seeking validation through sob stories aligned with political agendas.
Packer laments how local news outlets are vanishing while national press struggles under billionaire-controlled platforms inundating users’ feeds with conspiracy theories rather than factual reporting: “The internet…has consolidated…the power to destroy objective truth,” he states poignantly—a reality exacerbated by monopolistic tendencies seen across digital spaces today where misinformation thrives unchecked alongside legitimate discourse alike!
Ironically though—as someone whose paycheck comes courtesy from wealthy benefactors himself—it raises questions regarding whether true objectivity can exist amidst such financial entanglements? Historically speaking rich individuals have always funded various forms/media channels throughout history; thus creating diverse perspectives requires significant investment which isn’t easily attainable without some level influence exerted over content produced therein!
Despite pervasive issues plaguing legacy outlets today—the rise/influence brought forth via online platforms offers unprecedented opportunities previously unimaginable! Back when Packer began working within journalism three major television networks dominated public discourse leaving little room available for alternative viewpoints challenging established narratives propagated therein! It wasn’t until democratization occurred via internet access allowing citizens greater agency over information consumption did accountability emerge surrounding misleading portrayals perpetuated historically!
Of course one could argue another core issue lies rooted deeply within gatekeeping practices themselves; particularly concerning figures like Elon Musk owning X (formerly Twitter)—a development causing unease amongst traditionalists fearing loss control over messaging channels once deemed reliable sources disseminating information accurately reflecting reality itself!
Ultimately advocating unbiased reporting remains somewhat idealistic given inherent biases each individual possesses stemming from personal experiences shaping perceptions accordingly—but fostering diversity across various mediums ensures broader representation exists enabling healthier debates around pressing societal matters affecting us collectively moving forward together toward solutions benefiting everyone involved equally regardless background held prior entering conversations initiated hereafter!
Partisanship naturally breeds echo chambers wherein opposing views become vilified leading us down paths devoid rationality altogether rendering arguments ineffective lacking substance required engage meaningfully others differing opinions held firmly onto tightly clung beliefs entrenched deeply rooted ideologies preventing constructive dialogue occurring freely between parties involved seeking common ground shared understanding achieved collaboratively instead merely shouting past one another endlessly repeating same tired tropes ad nauseam without resolution ever forthcoming anytime soon unfortunately either way…
As younger generations enter workforce equipped only limited exposure critical thinking skills honed throughout educational journeys undertaken thus far—they struggle grappling concepts requiring nuance understanding complex realities faced daily navigating turbulent waters rife contention everywhere encountered along way ahead still yet remain hopeful brighter days lie ahead eventually emerging victorious triumphantly overcoming obstacles placed before us united purposefully striving achieve greatness together hand-in-hand side-by-side forging new paths forward paving roads leading success awaiting discovery just beyond horizon waiting patiently beckoning call forth adventurers brave enough venture forth boldly onward despite fears lingering doubts holding back progress sought desperately yearning fulfillment dreams envisioned long ago finally realized fully now finally coming fruition right here right now…
Graduated from University of Denver, Residing in Dallas, Texas. Political observer and a Conservative. Follow on Twitter for more.