I’m not a big TV viewer, but the one thing I rely on television for is profession production. Stories that are well researched, well photographed, well written, well documented. Stories that present all the facts with just enough interpretation to let an intelligent person think about the story and make his/her own conclusions. I guess that’s why I watch a lot of PBS and listen to NPR. They tend to leave the flashy graphics and sound effects out to make room for solid content. (What the hell is going on with CNN and that ridiculous “situation room,” anyway?)

But Internet “reporters” have no responsibility and far too many of them lack the professionalism necessary to provide quality content. As a result, we get a lot of schlock online. Sadly, that seems to be what people want — how else can “reality” TV survive and YouTube thrive?

I’ve heard a lot about the book “The Cult of the Amateur: How today’s Internet is killing our culture” by Andrew Keen and one of my publishers recommended that I read it. (Unfortunately, I’ve also seen/heard Keen on air three times recently and he comes off as a real jerk, so I’m not very motivated to buy his book or read what he’s written.) I have a feeling I’m going to agree with much of what he has to say: that relying on amateurs for news and information is a big mistake.

So although I never thought I’d say it, I hope TV isn’t dying. And not just so Jim can keep his job.