Here’s why Western media ‘coverage’ of Russia is incredibly dangerous
Glenn Diesen | The self-deception practiced by journalists writing about the country is leading to dire consequences | Western media coverage of every Russian election is bad. But this time it was even worse than usual. Instead of lashing out at the incompetence on display, it's more constructive to explore why rational discussions about the country continue to appear impossible. Not to mention the dire consequences of the ongoing self-delusion. [...] We expect journalists to be objective in their reporting of reality, which is especially important during war. But this seems to be almost impossible, especially during conflicts. When human beings experience external threats, their herd instincts are triggered as society demands group loyalty and we punish those who deviate. The political obedience demanded during war time usually results in the weakening of freedom of speech, the role of journalism, and democracy.