If It's Not On TV, Is It News?

Many commentators have noticed the juxtaposition of stories about the military trial of abuses as Abu Ghraib and the "trouble" with Prince Harry's costume, complete with swastika. Which story had the most meaning (relevance) to US citizens and politics? Which story was splashed across TV screens on the evening news?

The answers do not surprise TV critics. Writing in the NY Times, Frank Rich examines torture "on holiday" and compares the coverage of non-photogenic news (a trial) by papers and television.

Does America no longer care about prisoner abuses? He writes that an "August 2002 Justice Department memo authorized the use of some 20 specific interrogation practices" yet no TV news covered the story. TV critics, read it and weep.