Acclaimed journalist and former Al Jazeera English news anchor, David Marash, was featured in a special media panel during ADC’s annual national convention last week. During the meeting, Marash engaged in an open discussion with the convention’s participants, and gave his insight on the state of the American media.

Marash said that the serious problems in the media stem from a lower standard of news reporting.

“The quality of television reporting is disintegrating all around us,” Marash stated. “The whole economy of news reporting is changing for the worse.”

Marash discussed the importance of the media’s role in world events, and said that rather than focus on important issues affecting the world, many mainstream media sources tend to get stuck in endless news cycles that cover the same issues.  He gave an example from this year’s presidential election, which many local and national news outlets have devoted their airwaves to.  Marash said that the incessant focus on the election has caused the media to neglect subjects such as the Middle East.

“One thing we learned from this year’s election is that we are moving another step towards self-isolation,” Marash stated.  “What grows stereotypes and fears is a lack of contact with the world.  As the American media becomes excessively America-centric, these fears will only increase. I think that the news channels have found in this election a great opportunity not to have to cover the rest of the world.”

Marash added that many individuals, especially the younger generation, have begun to turn to alternative sources such as Al Jazeera English and the BBC, as well as online-based news outlets, to receive their information.

When asked about the current administration’s role in the type of media coverage that is taking place, Marash claimed that much of the misguided fear and distrust that exists today is a direct result of the administration’s quick reaction after the events of September 11.

“In the post 9/11 universe, this administration has sustained the panic reaction,” he continued. “This has focused them on their supposed enemies.  Because the attacks of September 11 came from the Arab World, all of their panic, rage and fear has been focused on the entire Arab World.”

Marash spoke candidly about his experiences with Al Jazeera English, claiming that although his decision to leave the news organization was based on disagreements about what was being covered, he still believes that the network serves as an excellent source of news.

“Al Jazeera is a real news channel, one that needs to be watched by the rest of the world,” Marash stated.  “If you care about the world south of the equator, then it is the best network out there.”