In Response to "Through the Looking Glass" I was dismayed to read Jeremy McCarter's note on your site, informing you that they were taking down Stephen Glass' articles. I think it is a shame that The New Republic feels they can erase its past. They published the work and no matter what its validity, the work stands out as a powerful testament to these times, commentating on the nature of Truth and Contemporary Media. I have no doubt that they feel they are doing a "journalism service" by censuring their mistakes, but might they also be committing a crime against the digital preservation of important material? If The New Republic considers themselves true journalists and reputable publishers, they should embrace and learn from their mistake rather than trying to cover up a misstep. Upon reflection, TNR's actions are indeed more like politicians than reputable journalists. I hope they will take the time to reconsider their behavior, letting future generations of journalists and scholars decide what the work of Stephen Glass means. That is, after all,what real journalists do. -- Eric Gardner |