(I note that Billy Bragg has commented on this story today too). I have for years kept a copy of Hilaire Bellocs book The Free Press, first published in 1918, which begins I propose to discuss in what follows the evil of the great modern Capitalist Press, its function in vitiating and misinforming opinion and in putting power into ignoble hands; its correction by the formation of small independent organs, and the probably increasing effect of these last. Its a terrific little book and investigates in depth exactly the situation that existed a hundred years ago with regard to the inappropriate and corrupt control of the media, but which still stands today. He even proposes an (ultimately somewhat naive) solution. But NOTHING has changed - particularly in the printed word. EVERYTHING must be treated as propaganda. The internet has opened the field to an extent, but the power still clearly rests with those that shout the loudest. As Aeschylus noted in the 5th century BC, in a [propaganda] war, truth is the first victim. Brand at the moment is in the privileged position of having/being a mouthpiece and is therefore engaging directly with institutionalised corruption of obscene proportions, and he is taking the (personal) consequences with humour and intelligence. Power to his elbow, even though we must still regard what he says as having an agenda and therefore suspect!. Perhaps we should rewrite Evelyn Halls quote, I will criticise what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it!
Posted on: Sun, 01 Dec 2013 14:34:14 +0000