A hundred and thirty-five years ago during the heyday of PT Barnum and the “Greatest Show on Earth”, the press of the day negatively and heavily feasted on the flamboyant and “bigger than life” super promoter and showman. Barnum was always somewhat controversial in his time as he moved fast as an opportunist and had uncanny business savvy. However, not all ventures paid off in the long range. Barnum was quick to change directions and usually diverting potential disasters. The press watched and followed his actions as he was truly a phenomenal man amongst men.
The case in point that I will pursue of the power of the press involves one of his greatest attractions, Jumbo the huge African elephant. He was the highlight for four years of the circus animals. Near the end of the fourth year, handling, feeding amongst other issues, insiders knew Jumbo was becoming a liability. While loading in darkness, Jumbo was struck and killed by a train on a parallel tract. The major press quickly pumped on the story and alleged the ploy was contrived to rid it quickly and efficiently thus snuffing out a huge operation problem. This was witnessed and proved to be fake news. The journalist was fired, and an apology was made by the press. However, the rumors persisted, and other negative views persisted and concocted by the press dogging the business. This was all started by news outlets that had a negative view of a successful but controversial man.
Barnum’s reputation was permanently impacted by the fake news. Good journalism always should gather facts and make unbiased releases.
However, journalism is also rated on first hand breaking news, to be the first with news of interest. The press’s reputation usually overriddes reputation of those it writes about. Irresponsible reporting even in false accusations starts lasting opinions, especially amongst those that thrive on negative comments of someone or something. American journalism should not return to biased and slanted distortion of the facts. Hate and a popular point of view does, however, surface as readership is the main goal in journalism. In other words, you re-enforce what your base wants to hear. This now driving your readership more to the right or left, pushing radicalism to extremes and dangerous limits. I contend journalism plays a major role in division or unity in America. A major moral code is being exploited by some media.
Donald Cook, Port Lavaca
