Brian Williams, TV news anchor, and his mis-remembering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the controversy involving NBC news anchor Brian Williams and his misrepresentation of events during his reporting, particularly regarding a helicopter incident in Iraq. Participants explore themes of truthfulness in journalism, the implications of embellishment, and comparisons to other public figures who have faced similar accusations. The conversation touches on the broader cultural context of storytelling in media.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question Williams' motivations, suggesting he may have believed that telling a compelling story would enhance his career prospects.
  • Others draw parallels between Williams' actions and the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports, indicating a moral conflict between right and the perceived benefits.
  • There is a suggestion that embellishment in journalism is a recurring issue, with Williams not being the first newscaster to face such allegations.
  • One participant references the concept of "Stolen Valor," implying a deeper societal perception of veterans and their experiences.
  • Jon Stewart's commentary on Williams' situation is mentioned, highlighting a critique of the blending of entertainment and news reporting.
  • Participants express concern over the implications of Williams' suspension and the broader impact on trust in news media.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the ethics of embellishment in journalism, with no clear consensus on the motivations behind such actions or the appropriate consequences. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications for the media industry as a whole.

Contextual Notes

Limitations in the discussion include varying definitions of embellishment, differing perspectives on the role of storytelling in journalism, and the lack of a unified stance on the ethical responsibilities of news anchors.

Astronuc
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Accusations mount against US anchor over war 'lie'
http://news.yahoo.com/accusations-mount-against-us-anchor-over-war-lie-203838205.html

By now, most folks in the US have probably heard about the scandal involving NBC news anchor, Brian Williams. He recently had to apologize for claiming that he was on a helicopter that had been forced down after being struck by an RPG.

Well, Williams is stepping away from the news while NBC investigates.
http://news.yahoo.com/nbcs-brian-williams-taking-himself-off-air-several-004259877--finance.html

Then again, Williams is not the only celebrity to embellish or misrepresent his or her past.
http://news.yahoo.com/brian-william...-and-other-famous-fabrications-200635601.htmlWhat was he thinking? or not?
 
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Astronuc said:
What was he thinking?
"If I tell a good enough story, maybe they'll make me anchor?"

It's sort of like steroids in sports: It's wrong, but totally worth it.
 
What's Springstein call it? "... boring stories of --- glory days."
 
This seems to be a recurring theme with newscasters. He's hardly the first to be caught "embellishing" his first hand reporting.
 
Stolen Valor redux, and an acknowledgment that we veterans are elites in their eyes.
 

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