Bill Moyers, Populist?

“Populism is a political doctrine or philosophy that purports to defend the interests of the common people against an entrenched, self-serving or corrupt elite.”

Personally, I think Bill Moyers gets many things right about journalism that the larger media outlets are currently missing.  He is interested in stories that affect people who are not in the public eye.  He treatment is often deep and sympathetic (though sometimes sentimental). I think many reporters should take a page from Moyers’ book:  the depth and accuracy and rigor of his reporting is admirable.

Philosophically, I think that Moyers criticism of those in power can be tempered with a deeper understanding of that power.  Like many (potential) populists, he bases his political beliefs on sympathy for those he represents, but too often, he elevates his ideas by lowering the positions of those in power.  This can do all of us harm.

Are there self-serving, corrupt people in positions of power?  You bet.

Is Bill Moyers helping us by uncovering their acts and making such people answer for themselves?  Surely, if he’s accurate and honest.

Does Bill Moyers have a little more thinking to do about the lens with which he looks at the world?  Personally, I think so.

Note to Self:  Beware of people who want to control or blame “the media”, even those like Moyers who work hard to make it better.  Usually, they are not willing to think through their own ideas.