Robert J. ("If he were Paul, he'd be dead now") Samuelson looks back on his four decades in journamalism, and falls in love with himself all over again:
This was a common conceit among journalists of my generation. We would
reveal what was hidden, muddled or distorted. The truth would set
everyone free...I started with the naive notion that, by exposing and explaining how
the world worked, I would in some small way contribute to better
government and a saner society. What I discovered firsthand is what I
already knew intuitively: Democracy is a messy, often shortsighted,
unreasoned and selfish process. People have interests, beliefs and
prejudices that, once firmly entrenched, are not easily dislodged --
and certainly not by logic or evidence...Good information does not inexorably lead to good government.
Robert J. Samuelson's firmly entrenched belief that the solution to most of our fiscal ills is to cut Social Security, Medicare, and other entitlements is, of course, a perfect example.
Offended by many liberal and conservative dogmas, I aspire to the
"sensible center."
The "sensible center." Uhhuh. No, I have no idea what he thinks the "sensible center" is between those who want to use government to improve the lives of Americans, and those who are willing to torpedo government.
Whether I succeed, I'm still trying to do what I've
always done: Explain things to myself and my readers; provide enough
information so that even people who reject my viewpoint and values will
emerge knowing more.
Epic fail. One emerges from a Robert Samuelson op-ed more ignorant (of everything except his axes to grind) than one started.
In a democracy, information is power, but you can never know whether
it will make us better or worse off. Journalism's contribution, though
not always constructive, is essential. At our best, we do serve as
watchdogs at all levels: Watergate is but one spectacular example.
And then there's the target-rich environment of the Bush Administration that provided the potential fodder for a dozen Watergates and a hundred lesser -gates, while establishment journalism looked the other way. We haven't seen much of your 'best' lately.
We
do illuminate crucial facts and clarify popular confusions.
But it's hard to think of many recent examples.
But too
often, our conformist and crusading instincts make us complicit in
episodes of collective folly, delusion or vengeance.
Can't argue there.
For me, there remains the personal pleasure of discovery and a faith
that the unfettered pursuit of truth -- no matter how contentious or
futile -- has stand-alone meaning. It's called freedom.
!