By Joseph Payton
It’s honorable to give credit when and where it’s due.
According to Steven Waldman, bloggers owe homage to Andrew Sullivan for blazing the digital writing trail.
Waldman makes a strong case for Sullivan’s position in the pantheon of bloggers.
If Waldman’s attributions are correct, the one Sullivan-ism that appealed to me was his willingness to adjust his public position on an issue.
Sometimes people make mistakes. At other times, people’s perspectives change.
This is not a novel revelation, yet it remains to be a difficult reality for legacy-minded journalists who struggle to admit fallibility.
The digital age has pulled back the curtains creating a glass house for everyone, not just those in the public eye.
I appreciate the Sullivan-isian approach to embracing one’s own humanity.
Sullivan presents a story based upon his research and his interpretation, but he’s not wedded to his first report. If more information is discovered or his interpretation of previous facts makes an adjustment.
He shows by example that it’s okay for writers to express their modified perspective.
Joseph Payton, is an U.S. Army Major and Public Affairs Officer. He’s currently earning a Master’s degree in Public Relations and Corporate Communications from Georgetown University. Additionally, he’s working as a graduate intern with the Army Office of the Chief of Public Affairs at the Pentagon, Arlington, Va.
The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Army, DOD, or the US Government. Advertisements Share this:
