The human factor

Among the assortment of letters and e-mails that editors receive, I’m drawn to the ones that start something like this recent one:

“I subscribe to The Herald because it seems to present the most balanced view of the news – giving me the information I need to make judgments for myself. But that seems to be changing ….”

Of course, it’s always a big BUT.

Let’s face it: Controversial issues, by definition, divide us. And it seems that no matter how journalists cover these issues, some sides – or all sides – will feel wronged.

Controversies can range from local elections or international policies to religion, culture or even the designated hitter rule. (Does it bother you the way it bothers me?)

Responsible journalists cannot shy away from uncomfortable issues. The trick is to go beyond the usual suspects spouting the usual talking points with the usual polarizing results.

Many of us have friends, neighbors or relatives whose beliefs differ from our own. Sometimes radically. And, yet, we usually find ways to understand and respect them as humans.

I’m new to The Herald. But one of the things I admire about this staff is the way its reporters and photographers attempt to cover stories – even potentially divisive stories – in human terms. Who are these neighbors whose names appear in the news? What makes them tick? How are they different – or the same – as us?

It’s the best way I can think of to paint a balanced picture of our world.