Not All Bloggers Are Politically Biased
Why is it so hard for intelligent adults to discuss politics? One of the ‘big three’ topics to avoid at all costs (religion and sex being the other two), I’m starting to wonder if blogs should steer clear of these areas too. Assuming, of course, one of these topics is not your blog’s niche.
The few times I’ve mildly approached politics on a blog, usually in a passing fashion, commenters appear out of the abyss, ready to accuse the writer of being biased.
Rather than rehash the debate on whether or not bloggers are journalists – and vice versa – let’s send out a message to folks who are hot to trot to polarize everything: CHILL OUT.
Not every blogger has an agenda. In fact, many bloggers that I speak with, couldn’t give a crap who moves into the White House in ’09.
Commenters clearly have the right to speak their mind, that’s the beauty of democracy – the beauty of blogging. However, before you respond attacking the blogger’s ‘bias,’ take a deep breath and make sure what you’re typing has merit.
‘Why’d you mention candidate X before candidate Y?’
‘Why’d you use an ‘unflattering picture of candidate Z?’
‘You spelled his/her name wrong on purpose…’
And so on.
I’d recommend that bloggers who are not covering the political beat, avoid politics as a topic. And if you do decide to take it on, make sure you do your research. Commenters are standing by.
