COLD HARD NEWS

If you want to get an objective worldwide view of what is going on day to day turn in to Al Jazeera. This news organisation based in Doha, Qatar has been repeatedly criticized (usually by the West) for presenting propaganda and news skewed in favour of specific arabic groups but I just don't find this to be the case.

I actually prefer the reporting, which tends to just say it how it is, to more sinister strands from CNN and dare I say it, sometimes even BBC World.

The journalists working for the station herald from all over the map and the professionalism is second to none. I have discovered other perspectives on places and issues (particularly in parts of Africa) thanks to Al Jazeera when I believed I already had a firm grasp of the facts. This news station conveys a sense of impartiality which I really like and reminds me to remain open to the truth, whomever is telling it to me. The stories covered are often heart rending and quite depressing, that's war for you, but I think it's important not to be oblivious. Equally important though is I always question whoever is reporting to me, even when I trust them.