Terry Gross vs. Bill O’Reilly

Bill O’Reilly refused to finish an interview with Terry Gross yesterday because she gave Al Franken an easy ride (”his book was satire,” she says) but seemed uncharacteristically antagonistic with the Fox News provocateur. Listen to the interview on Frrrrresh Air.

I don’t have cable so I haven’t seen his show, the “No-Spin Zone,” too many times. But from listening to his radio program a time or two, hearing this interview, and reading various things about him online and elsewhere, I don’t understand why he is often vilified as an “ultra-conservative.” In this interview, he claims to be for “strict environmental regulations” and decriminalization of marijuana. I understand that he is also an advocate of gay rights. Terry asks if shows like his create an atmosphere that do not foster solutions because there is so much bickering, etc. Yet folks like Al Franken clearly aren’t interested in constructive discourse and reaching across the aisles to acheive goals. Whether or not I agree with O’Reilly’s views on an issue, he seems much more dedicated to thinking critically rather than being emotional and ideologically driven. I think it’s safe to say that this man has a huge influence on the hearts and minds of people across the country. Because he claims to be willing to listen to solid arguments and reason, it makes sense that if a strong case is made, he might be a voice for that particular cause (or whatever). Rather than avoid his show, or simply bash him as a scary right-winger, why not convince him that you’re right and potentially change the attitudes of millions?

October 17th, 2003