More on ‘MacNeil/Lehrer’

I congratulate Howard Rosenberg on recognizing “The MacNeil/Lehrer News Hour” (“ ‘NewsHour’ Chases the News, Not Simpson,” Oct. 26).

Within a few months of my 1978 migration to the United States, I began feeling nauseated by the news “shows” of network television. They seemed to lack truthfulness, objectivity and courtesy, the staples of true journalism. They were nothing but a forum for silky-tongued, well-dressed and glamorous folks to drum up business for their sponsors and to increase their personal popularity.

Eventually I discovered “MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour.” Now I have made it my primary source of news, along with a few newspapers. “NewsHour” strives to probe and clarify the viewpoint of their guests. And they do it with dignity and courtesy.

Sixteen years ago, I was amazed by the extent of freedom accorded to the press in the United States. But, having watched the network and cable news, I realized that the freedom does not necessarily guarantee quality. Network and cable journalism, with divided loyalties and dubious ethics, is no better than a policed newspaper in a totalitarian society.

But I am glad that we do have “MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour” as a choice on television. I strongly urge your readers to give the “NewsHour” a try.

ARUN IVENGAR

Buena Park