I never intended this blog to develop a huge following, as in many ways I envisioned it as a reference/research tool for me; an online bibliographical archive of interesting studies, editorials and journalism that I can easily sift through if/when I decide to write my first book, or even to help me in doing background research for another freelance article.
But now, almost three years into this pursuit, I really would like to develop this blog into somewhat of an online community with more readers and commenters. And it strikes me that the best way of accomplishing this goal is to re-focus and re-purpose this blog from covering everything policy and politics-wise to carving out a niche and making this website the ultimate destination for anyone seriously interested in these topics.
In short, I want to dramatically narrow down the list of topics I cover, and then cover them much more rigorously - as an expert would as opposed to a generalist.
So tentatively, I am going to start covering a much smaller range of topics; those I am most interested in. Obviously, right now I'm thinking about covering (1) Globalization, which would involve criticism of the big multilaterals like the WTO, the IMF/World Bank, the UN and include analyzing trade, development and corporate policy and workers rights and economic inequality; as well as (2) the Neoconservatives' fantasy of war without end, covering alleged US war crimes, the "War on Terror", the Iraqi occupation, the continuing battle in Afghanistan as well as potential conflicts in the Middle East (Israel/Palestine, Syria, Iran etc) and North Africa.
Also, I am thinking about shifting my focus away from political coverage toward more critical policy-oriented analysis. I also want to include more media analysis, but rather than just covering the outrageous statements Bill O'Reilly, Ann Coulter, George Will and their ilk make, I'll be looking more toward exposing the pro-corporate, anti-worker, neoliberal institutional biases present within the mass media as well.
So let me know what you think about this proposition and we'll take it from here.
6 comments:
I think this is a great idea and the issue areas you describe are really interesting and timely. I can't wait to see your changes!
Dear Steven . . .
I apologize for the lengthy response. Your writing stimulated much thought.
I did notice the change in the title of your page. Also, I recall a time when you did not accept comments.
I personally, have long thought it wise to analyze and synthesize information. In reference to "outrageous" remarks from the right, I think we may mention these, while not demeaning the speaker. Although many have suggested I be snarky, I will never chose that path. If I am snide, rude, crude, or cruel, I will receive the same in return.
Personally, I regret the times I have referred to George W. Bush as a baby. I may on occasion, still define him as an Emperor; however, for me that is not meant to me derogatory as much as an explanation. I do think our global village is not working as one. The planet is dominated by a single power. The United States of America treats governing bodies as though they are part of our empire.
I prefer depth in study. I find it challenging to consider a topic as though it is not related to another. Globalization is a term I believe apt, no matter the issue. What we do in our homes has an affect on the streets, in business and in industry. The effect is evident locally and abroad.
I am uncertain I fully understand the two thoughts together. You state,
"it strikes me that the best way of accomplishing this goal is to re-focus and re-purpose this blog from covering everything policy and politics-wise to carving out a niche and making this website the ultimate destination for anyone seriously interested in this (these) topics.
In short, I want to dramatically narrow down the list of topics I cover, and then cover them much more rigorously - as an expert would as opposed to a generalist."
I am certain that if you are proposing to write as a researcher might, I applaud you. I find that I am often bored with the repetitive, rote, mantra exhibited in many missives elsewhere.
I am not one that rants or rages. I am the thinker. You, as I, may have fond memories of visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and contemplating Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker.
For me, personally, I do not need a narrow list of topics; although, I often think to reduce my index. I acknowledge inter-relations are ubiquitous. I do prefer deep discussions. Never in my life have I lived on the surface. It is my perception that you too do not look at life and see only what lies on the surface.
Steven, I trust your wisdom. I love that you share your thoughts. I believe when we honor others all is wondrous; life is good.
Betsy L. Angert
BeThink
http://bethink.org
Dear Steven . . .
I apologize for the lengthy response. Your writing stimulated much thought.
I did notice the change in the title of your page. Also, I recall a time when you did not accept comments.
I personally, have long thought it wise to analyze and synthesize information. In reference to "outrageous" remarks from the right, I think we may mention these, while not demeaning the speaker. Although many have suggested I be snarky, I will never chose that path. If I am snide, rude, crude, or cruel, I will receive the same in return.
Personally, I regret the times I have referred to George W. Bush as a baby. I may on occasion, still define him as an Emperor; however, for me that is not meant to me derogatory as much as an explanation. I do think our global village is not working as one. The planet is dominated by a single power. The United States of America treats governing bodies as though they are part of our empire.
I prefer depth in study. I find it challenging to consider a topic as though it is not related to another. Globalization is a term I believe apt, no matter the issue. What we do in our homes has an affect on the streets, in business and in industry. The effect is evident locally and abroad.
I am uncertain I fully understand the two thoughts together. You state,
"it strikes me that the best way of accomplishing this goal is to re-focus and re-purpose this blog from covering everything policy and politics-wise to carving out a niche and making this website the ultimate destination for anyone seriously interested in this (these) topics.
In short, I want to dramatically narrow down the list of topics I cover, and then cover them much more rigorously - as an expert would as opposed to a generalist."
I am certain that if you are proposing to write as a researcher might, I applaud you. I find that I am often bored with the repetitive, rote, mantra exhibited in many missives elsewhere.
I am not one that rants or rages. I am the thinker. You, as I, may have fond memories of visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and contemplating Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker.
For me, personally, I do not need a narrow list of topics; although, I often think to reduce my index. I acknowledge inter-relations are ubiquitous. I do prefer deep discussions. Never in my life have I lived on the surface. It is my perception that you too do not look at life and see only what lies on the surface.
Steven, I trust your wisdom. I love that you share your thoughts. I believe when we honor others all is wondrous; life is good.
Betsy L. Angert
BeThink
http://bethink.org
My sense is you may get bored quicker than you think. I myself find I focus on a few different topics, like Israel, the war, the economy (globalization), and legal stuff. And sometimes music and literature. That's already pretty wide.
Again, though, if you look at your two topics, they could be wider than you think, but not really. My advice, for what it's worth, is don't limit yourself too narrowly.
Personally, I was hoping you'd morph into a sort of Huffington Post or do what Digby and Atrios do, which is have a stable of bloggers.
All your commentary is really thoughtful and well researched. I think you should continue to focus on the things that interest you and that you feel passionate about. As long as you maintain that focus the rest will evolve on its own. Keep up the great work. Do I get the first autographed copy when you write a book???
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