One of the biggest news stories in the
world of sports is the issues involving the University of Tennessee Athletics.
Eight unnamed women have filed Title X
sexual assault cases on the university, stating that the school has permitted a
sexually hostile culture to take place on campus.
I’ve watched and heard about the story on
multiple news outlets and it seems each has a different approach.
In the articles I’ve read the reporters
have been somewhat accusatory in their writing.
CNN for example, has done a very good job
getting their research in order and making sure they have the right quotes for the
victim’s side.
However, they don’t seem to be digging too
deep into the other side of the issue.
There’s very little detail on the credibility
of the claims that have been made against the university.
In one particular article, they don’t
present the counter argument until the article is three-fourths done.
I feel by then my opinion on the situation
has already been set.
On TV things are a little different, with
multiple interviews being shown on the issue, both sides have been able to
properly defend themselves.
Former employees and players from the
University of Tennessee have been interviewed and have lamented the actions of
those leading the school.
While former and present university
officials and coaches have been able to give their thoughts on the matter and
have brought balance to the issue.
Also with TV, you get to bring in multiple
reporters who cover all angles of the story and see what opinions they
developed based on their research.
Then lastly you get to radio which is
easily the most bias of the three. Especially in sports talk radio, a host will
usually find a quote or section of the story that supports their argument.
Then in defense of their side of the
argument, sports hosts will find whatever holes they can in the opposing side
to discredit them.
For this Tennessee story in particular, I’ve
seen radio shows use certain isolated quotes or sound bites that can manipulate
the listener’s opinion.
I will give credit however to the 710 ESPN
LA station I listen to. The hosts of the shows have been able to give multiple
perspectives on the matter due to their mix of journalist and former athletes
in studio.
Overall all three forms of media have their
pros and cons. When it comes to this story specifically it also depends what
network or publications you’re getting the information from.
One could be leaning either way which
makes things a little more difficult.
