This is a small example of a larger problem with the AP: In reporting on a statement released by Paris-based ESA on the shrinkage of the polar icecap, the AP includes the following statement:
Many experts believe that global warming is to blame for melting the passage.
I can't think of any good reason why blame needed to be assigned here. Wouldn't is the cause of be more appropriate?
Here is the problem: By including colored words—blame, fault, slams, rips—in their reporting, the AP is slanting straightforward reporting towards editorializing. The process is more subtle than blatant, but the effect on the reader may be more certain; blatant editorializing being more easily recognized and evaluated.
Look at AP reports and one can see the AP has this technique polished to a high sheen. That is why I say the AP is a news disservice.
Tag: Associated Press polar ice Trackposted to Blue Star Chronicles, Rosemary's Thoughts, 123beta, and Nuke's News & Views, thanks to Linkfest Haven Deluxe plus Woman Honor Thyself and OTA Weekend.
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