The media’s coverage of Joseph Stalin and the Soviet Union is a notorious example of early liberal bias, and could possibly be the worst coverage in the history of the media. In fact, during and after World War II, Joseph Stalin was a well-loved figure in the United States. Under his leadership, the Soviet Union conducted purges of political adversaries, activists, and even specific nationalities, which included mass executions and torture of hundreds of thousands of Soviet citizens. In spite of this, the liberal media – in particular, Walter Duranty, the Russian correspondent for the New York Times – steadfastly refused to report the monstrosities, and in many cases reported just the opposite.
Digital Age
Now, fast-forward to the twenty-first century and the invention of digital journalism. Newspapers have transitioned from a focus on print publishing to digital distribution, allowing reporters access to audiences (and sources) around the globe. It’s nearly impossible to think of a reputable news source that doesn’t have a website, not to mention a Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook account. It’s difficult to imagine a time when consumers waited weeks or even months for the transmission of information. With the introduction of the digital era, news content is generated rapidly. As a story is unfolding, it is already available at your fingertips. News publications today have redefined the term “breaking news.”
