Some interesting points on this thread and some that are piercing my rhinoceresque skin.
t'aint natural,
Perhaps your sweeping generalisations are indicative of the quality of journalism that you once practised, but don't you bloody dare state that ALL of us have the same pathetic standards as yourself and your 'many friends in journalism'.
Over the past seven years two of my colleagues, both of whom were friends of mine, were murdered as a direct result of their tireless campaigns to bring the truth about various individuals and organisations to the public. Others I know live under constant fear of death. These people were not out 'for the most saleable story'. They were meticulous in their research and it really, really battered their professional pride when they occasionally got things wrong.
The majority of journalists with whom I work have the same standards and I know that most of MY friends in the business would agree with me.
For the record, I work as a senior editorial executive on a non-UK national newspaper and also have many years experience in 'the game'. I am also a pilot, albeit in a private capacity for now.
raitfaiter,
Excellent contribution. Perhaps you would care to expand on your theory.
Apologies in advance for any errors in spelling or grammar: all the bloody subs have gone to the pub.
