The problem with our newspapers is that they allow unknown writers with no knowledge or experience to write about serious issues that challenge even experts and professionals. Ideas and opinions put forward by these would-be writers are no more than frivolities and they are too often childish and ill-considered. In many cases they are more harmful than useful. Newspapers should stop publishing such drivel and bluntly tell the individuals it would be better for them, the readers and the paper if they stopped sending in such articles. Serious issues should be left to those interested in serious and thought-provoking discussion.
Of course every one is free to express themselves, whether in writing or by other means. Some people may see no harm in expressing naive and silly opinions, thinking they are contributing something useful. They may be excused for their ignorance, but what excuse does a respected newspaper have when it willingly publishes such trivialities?
Matters of public interest such as problems relating to municipal matters, transportation, utility services and the like should be open for everyone to express an opinion on. But when it comes to sensitive and strategic matters that may influence the nation’s future, not everybody should be allowed to blunder into them.
Highly inflammatory and controversial matters should be left to specialists. It is amazing to see this non-stop flood from writers who feed the papers with articles addressing extremely sensitive issues. When you read the articles, however, you discover how matters are simplified and facts and pictures distorted.
Problems such as extremism, terrorism and violence that plague the entire world, including our country, require serious discussions involving intellectuals, religious scholars, politicians, educators, economists, psychologists, sociologists, historians and other experts.
Instead, every Tom, Dick and Harry writes whatever he wants to write about these serious matters and sends it to the papers, which rush it onto the page without bothering to evaluate it and decide if it is worth publishing.
Newspapers ought to stop publishing these articles. If they insist on giving space to these writers, the articles should be featured on pages other than the editorial or opinion ones. Op-Ed pages should be reserved for serious articles by writers who are both well-informed and thoughtful.
Arab News From the Local Press 7 July 2003
