A Subtle News Bias
I hear it almost every day and it really points to a subtle news bias within the news media industry. When referring to President Bush some news anchors seldom refer to him as President. Instead it’s either Mr. Bush, or even worse, just Bush.
I find this amazing on a number of levels. First off, it shows not only a lack of respect for the Office of President, but it also shows a lack of respect for President Bush himself. After all, he is the President of the United States. If nothing else, the news media should at least show a respect for the highest Office in the nation.
Secondly, we live in a society where many people complain there’s no respect for anyone anymore. I’m constantly amazed at how people chuckle, even people who should know better, when I refer to governmental leaders by using their title. I’ll never forget the day I sat at a meeting with a Principal of an area school and school teachers laughed when I referred to the Principal as Principal (insert last name). As the teachers laughed I sat stunned when the conversation then turned to how students don’t respect them. I thought to myself, it’s no wonder! You don’t even show respect to those over you, so why should the students show any respect to you.
Thirdly, and I know there are plenty more points I could bring up here in the area of news bias and respect, but I find it amazing how glaringly clear the bias is in the news revolving around respect for the President. While some news agencies refer to President Bush as Mr. Bush or simply Bush, they always refer to former President Clinton as President Clinton. He hasn’t been President for 8 years now. The proper designation for him, as with any other President once out of office is, Former President Clinton.
Maybe some of the news media, and some of those in other places of leadership, should go back to school themselves and learn all over again a little common courtesy.
Just my two cents,
Dr. Rus
