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Media as a force for promoting progress

`The random vilifying of others on screen is an abuse of the freedom of the press.'

Heated political debate in Taiwan has given rise to a proliferation of political talk shows on local TV. These programs are broadcast either in the afternoon or the evening, and to save on costs, reruns are shown throughout the day. Many of the commentators, including members of the media, who participate in these shows have become household names, earning them the sobriquet mingzui (名嘴).

Viewed positively, mingzui is used to describe a "well-known commentator or speaker." But more often than not it comes across as a derogatory title. Media commentators can be of benefit to society. However, they should exhort each other to improve their performance.

First, TV commentators should be more judicious in accepting invitations to talk shows. Politics is a very broad field: National defense, international relations, the judiciary, the economy and finance are all related to politics, but each is a discipline in its own right. Field expertise, and not simply common sense, is needed to come up with convincing arguments that are beneficial to the country and the public. If a speaker were to decline the invitation because he or she was unfamiliar with the topic, the TV station can look for someone more suitable. Declining an invitation would then contribute to improving program quality.

Second, TV commentators should understand that the objective of the media is to work for the improvement of society. Hence, rational thinking and discussion are essential when making commentaries. TV stations and commentators are entitled to their opinions, but neither should distort the facts. Society, already beset by internal division, can only advance if we promote more balance. Commentators are mostly an educated lot: If they have the will and the self-respect, they can become a positive force in society.

Third, TV commentators should refrain from using bad language on screen and from quarreling with people who call in. If commentators use bad language on screen, this reduces a political talk show to an entertainment program, and commentators to entertainers. As for commentators fighting on screen with callers: Even if the callers pick a fight, commentators should know better than to stoop lower themselves to the same level. The random vilifying of others on screen is an abuse of the freedom of the press, and commentators should refrain from such behavior.

TV commentators should remember that one leaves footprints everywhere one goes -- more so participants in a talk shows which are taped and recorded. It might be difficult to be consistent, fair and honorable all the time. However, honesty and love of country and the people should be a fundamental and guiding principle for all commentators.

Commentators who are of good character, learned and conscientious should be applauded. With their sincerity and sound reasoning, they are a positive factor in shaping public opinion. Let us hope that all commentators will continue to improve their performance, so that the media can dispel its reputation as a source of division and truly become a force for progress.

Frank Wu is a former chairman of the Public Television Service Foundation.

Translated by Anna Stiggelbout
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