Behind the Bastards Part Two: How The Liberal Media Helped Fascism Win
Aug 22, 2024
Dive into the intriguing relationship between U.S. media and the rise of European fascism. Explore how early American media romanticized dictators and failed to grasp the dangers of Nazism. Discover the media's historical biases and misrepresentations, especially towards vulnerable communities. It's a compelling look at how journalism can both challenge and propagate authoritarianism, all while maintaining a humorous banter that keeps the conversation engaging and thought-provoking.
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US Media's Sympathetic Fascism Coverage
- US media and particularly wealthy owners saw fascism as a foreign threat, not an immediate danger.
- This led to widespread sympathetic coverage of Mussolini due to his image and anti-communist stance.
Dictator Flattery Warps Objectivity
- Journalists interviewing dictators feel obligated and less objective due to flattery.
- This dynamic warps coverage, softening criticism and aiding fascist propaganda.
Access Journalism Risks Democracy
- Maggie Haberman delayed reporting Trump's refusal to leave office to maintain access.
- Journalists' desire for access can suppress critical news with dangerous consequences.