Tuesday, April 08, 2003

Copydesk in front? Possibly for the first time in nearly two years, The Copydesk posted a topic before Jason Kottke.

Jason's site was one of the early inspirations for The Copydesk, mainly beause he always manages to keep things fresh and interesting.

However, I can't say I agree with the notion that the BBC are a 'biased' news organisation.

Admittedly, there is a slant to how the BBC report, which is based on cultural precedent that includes a history dating back roughly 100 years.

The fact is, the BBC is a massive, publicly-funded organisation; it is one of the leading broadcasters in the world, providing national radio output on seven major stations that cater for every taste in music, arts, culture, sport and current affairs.

It also broadcasts local radio in 56 regional areas, and tailors all of its television output according to geographical nation (Scotland, England, Northern Ireland and Wales).

Not only this, but the BBC has a huge educational remit - an area of television, radio and the internet that very few other organisations have even bothered with.

The BBC also broadcasts in numerous languages - including Welsh and Gaelic - and the Foreign Office-funded World Service provides news in a whopping 43 native languages.

It also caters for so many more interests, including drama, documentaries, nature, health, science, music, history, children's programmes and entertainment - on eight digital television channels and the internet.

Despite all of this, by its very nature, the BBC is compelled to be unbiased, or at least be seen to be - and deviation from the very extensive guidelines set down by the government often results in a public backlash, or worse - legal action.

I don't see CNN or Fox doing the same...... 

Now, that's what I call hard... In a boxing bout against Ezzard Charles in 1954, the legendary Rocky Marciano sustained an injury to his face that caused a vertical gash to open from the bridge of his nose (between his eyes) right down to his septum (the cartillage between his nasal passages).

The wound gaped half an inch wide, and the bone protruded from the opening - his face had been literally split open.

At the end of the round, Marciano was stitched up by his trainor - using a single loop of wire - and then returned to the ring.

He went on to win the fight.