Morning Rounds, I

Today Chrenkoff's blog is a morning round all of its own.

He has a continuing report on Saddam's trial, and today's entry compares other news reports. Reuters describes Saddam's appearance as relaxed, confident, and even says 'he seemed defiant,' while The New York Times describes him as subdued, contemplative, seemingly compliant, and strikingly different from the defiant Saddam Hussein previously appearing in court. This is billed as news reporting, not commentary. Chrenkoff provides a picture of Saddam in court with his own take (not profane, but not quite a G rating, either, just so those of our readers who are particularly careful parents know).
After looking at the photograph, which description of him do you think is the most accurate?

I don't think this is about one news agency lying while the other tells the straight truth. I do think this small issue is a good one to use to illustrate the subjectivity of much of what gets reported as news. With the best will in the world to provide straightforward, unbiased news, reporters can't help the fact that they are human beings.

Chrenkoff also has a great collection of links and excerpts concerning the recent story about cancelling the debts of the poorest nations in Africa. I think it's must reading for Common Room Scholars and our friends who wish to catch up on this story.

Be sure to spend a considerable amount of time reading the links Chrenkoff provides. Very thought-provoking material.