The Standard Examiner Calls Out Blogs and Bloggers

A Web of Deception, or Just Tough Competition?

By Native

In the Sunday edition of today's Standard-Examiner, there is an interesting article on blogs and bloggers. The title, "Be wary of bloggers who weave… a web of deception" sets the tone for an article that seems aimed at warning the reader of the rumors, gossip, and misinformation that permeates some blogs.

There were, I think, some interesting and apropos points made in the article. Such as that there seems to be a lack of sourcing and referencing, especially when it comes to the "comments" posted in blogs. Another interesting stat in the article is that it is estimated that one quarter of all Americans obtain information from blogs. This percentage is probably due to increase as the capabilities of traditional print journalism decrease and the interest and reach of the internet increases.

Then, in a very interesting example chosen by the author, Brad Gillman, he tells the story of a local blog, Davis County Watch, started by Tyler Farrer. This is a blog that really took off when Mr. Farrer investigated some of the financial issues of the South Davis Recreation Center and uncovered some controversial costs to the citizens of Davis County. Where have we seen an example of this before?

The article seems to admit that blogs represent a potent, new form of electronic journalism, and that the younger generation has embraced its power and dynamic response. However, the article warns the blog-consumer to consider the credibility of all blogs and blog posting by looking for external links to other sources and to consider the credibility of sources. Additionally, that media outlets will sometimes pick up rumors from blogs and publish them in an attempt to get the story.

The article ends with the tragic story of a Funny Car driver whose life tragically ends after a racing accident. The driver's family decided to pull life-support five days after the accident, however his death had already been reported on blogs. The unfounded rumors added to the hurt and anguish of the family. A very sad story indeed.

As a Weber County Forum regular, I found it hard not to see this article as a dig at my very own favorite blog. Although I would not expect the Standard-Examiner to use wcforum as the example of a local blog (never give your competition free ink), it was interesting how similar the example used (Davis County Watch) was to wcforum. I tend to agree with the author with regard to checking sources and external links, but does this not apply to all information we receive? Your thoughts?