PressEthic

Russian president Vladmir Putin addressed the nation on Wednesday in a three hour television program. Viewers were encouraged to call in to express their concerns about the nation directly to the president (after undergoing extensive screening of course). This is the fifth time in as many years that this Russian fireside chat has occured.

While the calls were screened, tough questions were still asked. Among other things, callers asked when government corruption will be brought under control, and why there are so many contract killings in Russia. Putin didn't dodge the issues.

In light of the fact that Putin has spent his presidency reigning in the press, these fireside chats seem like a public relations tactic. Putin says he enjoys these direct interactions with the people because it helps him keep his finger on the pulse of the nation, but is that really his motivation? A smart government would never want its people to believe they live under tyranny. Are these fireside chats a substitute, a concession to the people, for a free press?

I don't mean to be such a red-baiting yankee. I don't know what it is, but I just don't trust those shifty-eyed ex-commies. ------ just kidding