It has been a week since we returned from Syria and, if the media are to be believed, things are getting much worse in Syria. While we were in Syria, we saw little signs of the unrest that the media has been reporting. That isn’t to say things aren’t happening–I am sure it is. I am even more convinced by listening to the few Syrians that were willing to talk to us about the unrest. Still, I am a bit put off by the way the media has been reporting; particularly the video that almost all media outlets have been showing. Almost all end their reports with the phrase, “we would like you to know that we were unable to verify the authenticity of this video.” My view is, if you can’t verify it, don’t report it. This is simply irresponsible journalism. This is exacerbated by the fact that these videos have a much more visceral impact on the viewer than words or sound-bytes…which can often lead to unsound judgements by the consumer. Yes, I realize that Syrian officials will not allow reporters into the country but that does not mean the media can take license with with every video clip they receive from unverifiable sources. I realize that we are in an age where every news report is “breaking news” and that each media outlet feels the need to out do the other, but there has to be some middle ground in situations as serious as this. The Syrians are well aware that they are in a period of extreme unrest but they are also very much aware of the implications that this type of reporting has on their lives. More than a few pointed out that the reporting was excessive and often erroneous. This type of reporting doesn’t help the Syrians and it doesn’t reflect very well on us–US citizens and the media. In short, nobody wins. I will reiterate, I completely believe that there is a serious crisis in Syria and that it is likely to get worse. Let’s not muddy the situation by reporting irresponsibly or worse, by believing everything we see and hear in these media reports. Read plenty, reference multiple sources (including those you would normally not read or agree with), ask questions and then make your opinion.
