kikipeepers asked
Consider the decision by NBC News to broadcast the so-called “manifesto” by the deranged Virginia Tech killer, Cho Seung-Hui. It first aired at 6:30 Wednesday night after hours of discussion, debate and negotiation with law enforcement authorities. NBC News decided to release a portion of the video, photos and writings of Cho. In opening the broadcast, NBC Nightly News anchor Brian Williams said, “We are sensitive to how this will be seen by those affected and we know we are in effect airing the words of a murderer here tonight…so much of it is so profane, so downright gross and incomprehensible. We tried to edit carefully for broadcast tonight.” It was “profane” and it was “gross.” It was also scary and painful to watch. One could only imagine what it was like for the families and friends of the 32 Virginia Tech victims murdered in cold blood on campus. Some of the family members decided not to appear on the “Today” show to express their displeasure with the network’s decision. Forensic psychiatrist, Dr. Michael Wellner, called on NBC News as well as other broadcast and Internet outlets to “stop showing this video now.” Wellner said showing the video was a “social catastrophe.” Others argued that showing visual images of Cho could potentially encourage others to engage in copycat killings.
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