The inflated credibility of the Western media
- Source: Global Times
- [23:14 November 23 2009]
- Comments
Complicated history, a polarized view on economic growth vs. cultural maintenance, a bias toward Buddhism, deference to the Dalai Lama, and disagreements with China's Tibet policy have all contributed to tilting the Tibet question. An issue that needs lengthy, in-depth reporting instead receives simplifi ed, one-sided coverage.
Inflammatory language, especially after being translated into Chinese, adds to another layer of offense to a Chinese audience who are often not used to the sarcastic style of the Western press. Framed interviews, cropped photos, and sometimes fabrications also emerge.
In reporting the Xinjiang riots last July, Western media followed the same patterns. The result was the further deepening of long-held misunderstanding.
Admitted, the unsophisticated information disclosure of Chinese government, and equally important, lack of solid coverage by the Chinese media have led to miserable result that even misleading coverage is eagerly seized by a world hungry for information.
Western media is granted a fl attering status of credibility in China, refl ecting the embarrassing weakness of the Chinese press. Disadvantaged groups regard the Western media as a symbol of justice.
Scandals broken by Western media are given more serious consideration. Their way of reporting, writing and competing for exclusive news are followed among Chinese peers. It's fair to say that the existence of Western media has helped push the limits in many aspects.
After the Massage Milk scandal, I asked a friend, who was Beijing bureau chief of a US newspaper, "Why is the Western media so interested in covering the negative side of China?"
He replied, "Because we care, we think those issues are important to people." I raised my eyebrow, half convinced.
A country in transition witnessing thrilling changes almost everyday, China is an ideal place for reporters, both local and overseas, doing serious journalism. But it takes patience, hard work, and sometimes bravery to break away from long-held prejudices and report a changing China truthfully.
The author is an editor with the Global Times. lujingxian@globaltimes.com.cn
