Michael Crichton's 1993 prediction of mass-media extinction now looks on target. - By Jack Shafer - Slate Magazine

One of my favorite authors provides a withering critique of the state of American media/journalism. One of his key complaints is especially relevant in the wake of the "Russert Declaration" several weeks ago.

"Look at how many stories are unsourced or have unnamed sources. Look at how many stories are about what 'may' or 'might' or 'could' happen," he says. "Might and could means the story is speculation. Framing as I described means the story is opinion. And opinion is not factual content."

"The biggest change is that contemporary media has shifted from fact to opinion and speculation. You can watch cable news all day and never hear anything except questions like, 'How much will the Rev. Wright hurt Obama's chances?' 'Is Hillary now looking toward 2012?' 'How will McCain overcome the age argument?' These are questions for which there are endless answers. Contentious hosts on cable shows keep the arguments rolling," he says.