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01/07/2002 "You know, there are many definitions of patriotism, there's confusion between patriotism and nationalism. . . .I also think it's very important for us to respect the differences that exist in the country. I think that's especially true on the issue of patriotism. . . .There are a lot of root causes for dissatisfaction around the world and I think for the country to exercise real global leadership, when globalization in itself is kind of complicated, it's not just American business or selling American culture around the world. I think it's a very big challenge for a leader to get us all engaged in that because, you know, Americans are pretty insular people for the most part." Thank heavens we have Peter Jennings to explain that to us. I wonder if we are as insular as the Taliban or the madrasas in Pakistan, where the young are taught to hate America "just because"? But let us continue. On December 31, ABC's 2002 special, he expressed the same concern: "Some people, John, think that patriotism and nationalism sometimes get mixed up. It's not just that I love the place, but the place has got to be number one too, sometimes to other people's detriment." Apparently the great unwashed of the U.S. are too simple-minded, too Neandrethal, to handle our patriotism responsibly. By Mr. Jennings' estimation, we should look to the elite for a more global perspective before hoisting the American flag! Patriotism is a noble emotion that should be nurtured. Love of country has inspired people to accomplish great things in America and elsewhere. We don't need a media smarty-pants to explain to us that shooting up a mosque has nothing to do with patriotism. Shame on Peter Jennings for fearing what American patriotism can lead to! Although he has lived and worked here for years, he has maintained his Canadian citizenship. Fine. That is the choice that he made, for whatever reason. Yet if he wants to comment on things like patriotism vs. nationalism, the common folk are bound to believe that patriotism is not something that Peter Jennings understands. Let's inform Jennings that looking down his nose at patriotism is inappropriate. Perhaps that is what our friend in Dallas meant when he said he didn't think Jennings' brand of reporting could help the country heal. Here is the contact information: ABC News ABC World News Tonight contact page Walt Disney Corporation Read more here: MRC CyberAlert, 01/02/2002 When you feel your personal media bias tolerance gauge rising into the red zone, don't throw stuff at the TV screen! Send your suggestion to outrage@fairpress.org! Each week, one hideous example of media bias will be selected for closer examination. Hmmmmmm . . .
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