Bias in Action

If you want to know why a lot of people think that the media has a Liberal bias, here is a great example:

Arch-Conservative German Ratzinger Elected Pope

First, the ridiculous title. What exactly makes this guy an "arch-conservative"? For the first several paragraphs, the only reasoning behind this label is that he might follow "strict orthodox legacy and reject changes in doctrine." It's not until the twelfth paragraph where we might get something more. Nope, just that we can "expect no reform." Hm.

Later, we find out he preaches against "godless modern trends." Later still we find out he "denounced homosexuality and gay marriage." Oh, and he's old, and he never was a Nazi.

Let me repeat that: he was never a Nazi.

Is that it? Is that all it takes to be branded an "arch-conservative?" Look, you may think he's too conservative, but if Reuters all of a sudden started calling Ted Kennedy an "arch-liberal," people would be rioting! This guy is supposedly only going to continue the programs of one of the best-loved Popes of all time, and for that he is an "arch-conservative."

Next, let's just take a quick look at who they decide to quote in this piece. Remember, this guy was basically the lead advisor for a guy they are already trying to Saint. Remember also that this is not a story about liberal groups being upset at the choice in the new Pope. This is a story about who they chose as the new Pope.

There is not one single quote from a single person who likes the choice. On the other side, there are people calling this "a catastrophe," saying that this is "a very sad" moment, making fun of his age, saying he has a "venomous hatred for gay people."

Are you telling me that out of all those people standing outside at the Vatican, there wasn't a single Catholic happy about this choice? If there aren't any there, come down here! I have met several who are very excited. My wife works at a Catholic school, and they are ecstatic.

Even if 80% of the Catholic population are angry about this new Pope, don't you think we could have one small quote representing the 20%? I have not seen any opinion polls on the choice yet, but I would be shocked if Catholics do not approve of Ratzinger. But even assuming an 80-20 split, we should have heard something from the other side.

Look, I don't care whether you approve of this man or not. That is not the point here. The point is that we have a major news source putting out a story that is so slanted that it does not even give the other side a voice. It's embarrassing.

-Paul Lytle, Primum Mobile Magazine

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