The recent reporting of Frank Lampard's alleged 'spat' with partner Elen Rives appears to have been elevated to national news status by both the print and radio media. Am I alone in wondering what public interest this serves?
The radio presenter on LBC, James O'Brien, on the basis of the printed views of a journalist was prepared on air to use the words 'scum' and 'weak' to describe a fellow mortal who I assume he does not know. What's more he is prepared to talk about someone else's relationship as lover and parent - roles I think the majority of us in the real world recognise are exceptionally challenging to manage effectively and well.
Is it appropriate that because an individual is successful in their chosen career, one that rewards success generously, they be subject to public scrutiny, assessment and judgement? I think not. If there is a true public interest as in the misuse of public funds by elected officials, or the abandonment of the elderly within a social order that calls itself 'civilised', then by all means report on it, but with the facts not with opinions. These latter are available at two a penny in every coffee shop, but facts take a little longer and a good deal more care to gather.
There is much talk each summer about our examination system being 'dumbed down' and yet to me it appears the important dumbing down today is being orchestrated by the media. We are expected to take interest and/or delight in a private domestic matter, when the best any of us could do would be to seek to give every ounce of encouragement and support to all parties in this and the hundreds of similar situations faced by families throughout the UK.
Surely we are not content to have as our national epitaph, 'we gossiped our way into oblivion'! Would it not be better to be known nationally as those who journey bravely towards a society in which all people are encouraged and supported to achieve their maximum potential? Enough of this culture of cheap demolition and character assassination. The deposit it leaves in our culture is only cynicism and negativity, whose fruit is always violence. We need to stir up hope and work to create a culture of aspiration, mutual respect, and achievement.
Strangely these qualities are one aspect of Lampard's game on the field of play that are self evident and much applauded. A commitment to press to the final whistle for success, an inner belief to keep going, a desire for competing fairly for the prize offered within his chosen career. I for one believe we could learn more by reporting about Lampard the soccer player, than Lampard the family man. Although I also pray for his and Elen's success in working through difficult issues and would appeal to everyone to afford them the same level of privacy to high profile people that I would want in order to work out my personal, domestic challenges.
