...stories that could mean the difference between black and white in our perception of the world evaporate somehow...

The revolution in Haiti impacted an issue that will have a long-term effect on the economy of the Carribbean...

Similarly obscured is the apparent suicide of David Kelly : who had more to offer in the investigation of Iraq intelligence than time allowed. Both stories deserve a closer look.

The daily barrage of infotainment passes by, leaving behind a trail of dust and smoke and as history is made it is most frequently overwhelmed by obfuscation. Perhaps, as some say, because the winners write history. Nonetheless, stories that could mean the difference between black and white in our perception of the world evaporate somehow. Contemporary examples are easily found: I'll use two of them as examples.

The revolution in Haiti impacted an issue that will have a long-term effect on the economy of the Carribbean. Haiti is a very small part of the big picture, especially when measured in terms of economics. The coup was a wonderful story for the media: every reporter's dream in fact, including all the elements of violence and intrigue with the ultimate victory of the American Way.

The story it obscured was the effort of the Caribbean countries to establish a joint economy, much like the European Union that our allies in the UK vigorously opposed. The headline in the Trinidad and Tobago Express speaks volumes:

Status of Haiti Delays Economic Negotiations

Similarly obscured is the apparent suicide of David Kelly: who had more to offer in the investigation of Iraq intelligence than time allowed. Both stories deserve a closer look.

Seeking clarity in the face of obscurity has become an important duty for the "alternative press". Their efforts are still aided by the veteran journalists of a previous era who often find their stories buried on page F13 in a stack of pulp.

Will history be written by those with bylines on the front page of infotainment media? Let's hope not. We cannot allow the history of our time to be written by those who can only obtain their victory by main force.

DOGSPOT