[LEMONS] 6.13.2001
Foxnews' slogan is we report, you decide. Many Americans like them because they are "unbiased."
The European press is livid right now, having Dubya in their backyard. The Guardian is openly mocking him. The BBC is more staid, but the tone there is definitely one of "He played a crinky game of cricket, if you ask me, but let's give the old boy a chance, wot-wot?" But the interesting coverage is here in the States.
::You Decide::
CNN notes that: Bush warns Europe of 'new' threats. Note the quotation marks around the word new (a thread on metafilter discussing the marks drew my interest in the first place). The subhed: U.S. President George W. Bush began his first European visit seeking to deflect criticism of his stand on global warming and plans for a missile defense system.
The story relies almost exclusively on direct quotes. It is not prominently displayed on the front page of cnn.com. Not too much mention is made of the European peoples' deep distrust and resentment of Bush, although there is this:
Asked about criticism from some European countries over his refusal to back the Kyoto protocol on global warming and his plans for a national missile defense system, Bush said: "There is a lot that unites us -- trade, common values, great opportunities."
and this:
But he repeated his criticism of the Kyoto Treaty, which he has rejected much to the consternation of European allies.
These are, I believe, statements of fact (see European press coverage for confirmation). The top related link: Skeptical leaders await Bush on European trip.
Now let's look at Foxnews
The front page, in very large type, proclaims: Bush Aims to Help Spain Fight Terrorism. The subhed: President kicks off European trip in Madrid, heads to Brussels next to sell NATO allies on missile shield
When you click on the link, you get this headline: Bush Refuses to 'Isolate America From Europe'
The subhed: President Bush kicked off his first official trip to Europe in Madrid on Tuesday, eager to get beyond trans-Atlantic differences and assure U.S. allies they have a friend in Washington.
Direct quotes are used, but only in about 50% of the time. Literally no mention is made of the Europeans' anger with Bush, or damage we are doing in relation to our allies. None.
The top related link: Kyoto Is a Waste of Money, Environmentalist Says.
So who's more obviously biased here? You decide.
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