I like to read sites from all over the political spectrum. I believe that avoiding the rhetoric of people and publications that I disagree with would be counterproductive. People tend to get all riled up when they are exposed to views they disagree with, but what better way to continue to hone your own argument? Plus, you might actually learn something and possibly even change your mind every once in awhile. I know I have.
This list is pretty limited, but I figure not everybody wants to spend the amount of time I do in front of a computer screen. That plus genetics is the reason I am so pasty white. I don't care though. My tattoo artist says my translucent ivory skin is an excellent receptical for ink. Even yellow shows up on me. But, I'm getting off topic. Here's some of the political sites I enjoy exploring day after day.
538-Nate Silver is a statistical prodigy who rose all the way to the top of the ranks of pollsters and political insiders last year after being largely known in sports circles for some time.
It's hard to say which is more impressive, Silver's prediction of the Tampa Bay Rays' unexpected playoff bid or his crazy accurate forecast of the popular vote in the 2008 presidential election. I would LOVE to take him with me to Vegas or Pimlico.
Politico- I really enjoy reading Politico, but the tone occasionally bothers me. The site has an engaging, gossipy feel that sometimes makes it hard to take seriously. Either way, Politico has made its way onto my daily read list because it's entertaining and it excels at showing the more human side of the hill.
Weekly Standard- Features well known conservative writers like William Kristol, Fred Barnes and the Weekly Standard Blog. The blog is a good read and the website has content from the magazine as well.
The New Republic- The website of the liberal magazine is a mix of free and paid content and several prolific blogs. Their reviews and arts coverage are also excellent.
Huffington Post- Huffington Post has been described as the future of journalism. While that remains to be seen, the site has writers from all over the political spectrum and has fostered a great community dialogue.
Congressional Quarterly- Congressional Quarterly could be a one stop shop for political coverage and I especially like the transcripts they post. Other fantastic features include bill and vote trackers. I recommend taking some time to explore the site to find all the goodies because the layout isn't the most friend. Still exceptionally useful though.
League of Ordinary Gentlemen- This site chock full of excellent writing and thoughtful analysis. I have been quite impressed with the site's commitment to tackling the most controversial topics without resorting to name calling, accusations and the other nasty habits of political pundits.
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I definitely agree with your point that we need to expose ourselves to views that may not coincide with our own. I think one downfall of the number of blogs and citizen sites on the Internet is we have a choice to read completely biased publications - a liberal for instance can choose to only read sites that features content similar to their own opinions. To that point, I like the list of political blogs you follow because they all offer different perspectives on similar topics - giving someone some well rounded exposure and the ability to make an informed opinion on a topic.
ReplyDeleteYep, I agree, I do the same. As an individual, to read stuff of the political spectrum you don´t like is a choice, but being a journalist, I think it is a duty. You have to.
ReplyDeleteMy filter, though, is the deep of their content. I just don´t read stuff based on "I think that..." I don´t care what "you" think. You have thoughts? give them a base. Quote me books, give me facts, show me your readings and the people you have talked to, and I will read your columns no matter you´re a liberal, a socialist, an anarquist or a Nazi. If you sound just like a guy next door, well, I´ll rather talk face to face with the guy next door!!