Consider the issue and implications of intentional news media bias. Why are large segments of the American news media audience either unable or unwilling to be better critical media consumers?

Is it OK for Fox News network to do what it does – even while claiming loudly that it is “fair and balanced”?

What can or should other media outlets, especially cable news competitors of Fox News, do to counter this troubling trend?

Is it Ok for O’Reilly and Beck and Ann Coulter and the like to spew biased falsehoods (usually quite easy to fact-check for those who take the time to do so) and represent them as journalistic facts?

Are the people at Fox News so good at what they do that they are destined to permanently damage American journalism?

Well, consider the NY newspapers over the past or present..

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/index.html click on national news, and see what they are reporting.

http://www.mercurynews.com/nation-world
This is world news?

So what you have asked to me is just taboloid journalism, and it suffers all the characteristics of filth. The owner does not care, he is making money. The viewers have basal understanding of foreign affairs, and anything domestically to them centers on a conspiracy of some sort. This nonsense has been around for a long time, and probably will continue to be. Ever read the restroom walls at a Bus Station? It is not much different.

The issue of intentional news media bias is a complex and important one. News outlets have a responsibility to present accurate and unbiased information to their audience, but unfortunately, bias can and does exist in the media.

One reason why large segments of the American news media audience may be unable or unwilling to be better critical media consumers is because of various factors. Firstly, there is a phenomenon known as confirmation bias, where individuals seek out information that aligns with their pre-existing beliefs and values. This can lead to people choosing media sources that confirm their biases rather than seeking out differing perspectives.

Secondly, media literacy is an important skill that is not emphasized enough in education. Many individuals lack the necessary critical thinking skills to identify biased reporting or evaluate the credibility of sources. Without these skills, it becomes easier for biased information to influence public opinion.

Now, regarding the specific question about Fox News, it is important to recognize that media outlets have different ideologies and perspectives. Although Fox News claims to be "fair and balanced," many critics argue that their reporting does contain bias. It is up to each individual to critically evaluate the content they consume and consider multiple perspectives to form an informed opinion.

To counter this troubling trend, other media outlets, especially cable news competitors of Fox News, can focus on providing objective reporting. By emphasizing journalistic integrity, fact-checking, and diverse viewpoints, alternative news sources can offer a balanced perspective and provide a counterbalance to biased reporting.

When it comes to personalities like O'Reilly, Beck, and Coulter, it is essential to distinguish between journalistic facts and opinionated commentary. It is not appropriate for individuals to present biased falsehoods as facts, as this undermines the credibility of journalism. However, it is crucial for viewers to discern between factual reporting and opinion-based programming.

Ultimately, whether Fox News or any other media outlet will permanently damage American journalism depends on various factors, such as public demand for unbiased reporting and the ability of other outlets to provide balanced and credible news. It is important for individuals to be critical media consumers, actively seeking out multiple sources and viewpoints to ensure informed decision-making.