I’m just starting Paul Starr’s “The Creation of the Media” and was reminded of this post of yours when he is discussing early American newspapers.

Many had to remain neutral not out of choice, but because legal ramifications demanded subtlety. However, he says “Later on, during the Revolution and in the early republic, the majority of newspapers would take on a partisan identity.”

I’m sure he’ll discuss it later, but it is worth noting that news hasn’t always been neutral. In fact, FireDog Lake et al mind signal a return to the early roots of journalism.

Just for your information, it’s Jane Hamsher, not Hampshire. Other than that, I just wanted to say it is refreshing to read a review of an event like PDF from someone who isn’t an entrenched poli-blogger.

Anon