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April 18, 2005

When Activism and Journalism Collide

Last week the Boston Globe retracted a story by freelance journalist Barbara Stewart. Ms. Stewart wrote in graphic detail about the Canadian seal hunt just off the coast of Newfoundland. The problem: The hunt hadn't happened; she fabricated the entire event.

Too be honest, I'm not sure if Stewart's rationale for lying stemmed from her views on issues of cruelty to animals. In fact, this might just be a case of a journalist using an emotionally charged story for professional gain. Either way, the story can now be used as fodder to discredit those who oppose the seal hunt.

If PETA or Greenpeace were smart, they'd issue a statement condemning Stewart's action and engage the public in a positive dialogue on this issue.

Posted by Jason at April 18, 2005 9:42 AM