News Matters: The News Media Under Fire

First in a series of videos designed to examine various issues of the news media, The News Media Under Fire focuses on ethical questions raised when aggressive tactics are used by the news media to "get a story." While recognizing the real power that the media has to shape and influence culture, the video does not preach or offer pat answers, but instead allows students to draw their own conclusions by examining recent case studies, such as the O.J. Simpson trial and the ABC/Food Lion lawsuit. In addition to raising important questions concerning the responsibilities of the media in a free democracy, the video also provides historical perspective, beginning with the controversial coverage of the Vietnam War. Using plenty of clips from familiar news broadcasts, and narrated in an objective, coherent style, this program is an excellent tool for a current affairs, social studies, or journalism classroom, and the accompanying curriculum is thoughtful, in-depth, and practical. Highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)