PressEthic

A New York Times article discusses the development of Al Jazeera International, a new cable television channel designed for a global audience. Al Jazeera International is being modeled on its sister channel Al Jazeera in that it is “outspoken and unwilling, in its own words, ‘to sanitize war’.”

The article expresses concerns for the new channel’s ability to break into the American market. The article questions whether advertisers will want to associate their products with such a controversial television network. Furthermore it questions if Americans are really interested in international news – which could impact on their ability to attract an audience.

Putting economic realities aside, this new channel would be a welcome addition to the American television market. I for one would find this alternative news sources particularly valuable. With the major news networks accused of bias, in one direction or another, having a completely alternative voice on Middle Eastern issues would be very welcome.

At times objectivity seems to be an all too unattainable for the current news channels. Alternative voices in the media, based in different ideological perspectives, help compensate for this trend. Obviously Al Jazeera will not dominate the news ratings; however its very presence in the media should help widen the ideological scope of news discourse.

Al Jazeera could also be a surprising success. Many viewers may simply be curious about a news channel originating from the Middle East. Furthermore there are a number of incendiary issues stemming from countries in Israel/Palestine, Iraq, Iran and Syria, which are attracting a lot of media attention. Al Jeezera, by definition should be able to offer a perspective that is different from that of the Western media.

Al Jazeera should have access to information and sources that would help explain the often confusing and divisive issues in the Middle East.This could be of particular interest to audiences during times of international crisis. After events, like 9/11, the London Bombings etc, audiences in the Western world are often fearful and uncertain. They turn to the media for answers. Al Jazeera could find themselves in a position to help answer their audiences' questions from an alternative perspective.

So while Al Jazeera may seem like an unlikely starter in the USA, no doubt there is a significant audience who would be intrigued enough to supplement their news with a completely different perspective.