Just telling them what they want to hear

So my friend's blog, complaining about the news coverage of Heath Ledger's death overriding thousands of Palestinians coming into Egypt after blowing up a border wall, reminded me of my PS on my last post reminding me to write about the media.

First, I will say that yes, I work in the media and no its not perfect. However by no means does it completely deserve the bad reputation it gets.

People are always complaining about how the Britneys, Lindsays and Parises or the rape, murders and perverts get too much coverage. Essentially blaming the media, whether it is CNN or your hometown newspaper, of sensationalizing crap.

But really it is the consumers of media, basically everyone with a TV, Internet connection or newspaper subscription, who are to blame.

News is a business, so media outlets publish what sells, whether it is the conflict in Darfur or Britney shaving her head.

Yes, people should care more about world affairs, or even what is going on at their city council, but the media can't force them. People should eat healthier too, but if McDonald's quit selling fries and hamburger they would go out of business.

So if you really want real news to be on the front page instead of being buried under the newest starlet's arrest, then put your money, or mouse, where its really important.

Honestly, where do you click first?

Just to let you know I was shocked by Heath Ledgers death -- read all about it, and I don't know that much about the recent Congo peace deal. But at least I realize that there are more important things going on in this world, and don't expect to be spoon fed the important issues. So to Shad: it is not the editor who should be embarrassed but the people.