Why journalists sometimes treat priests unfairly: an incomplete thesis

RORY CONNOR, in his letter headlined ‘Trial by Media’ (Irish Examiner, October 18), tells us how the Los Angeles Times seems to want to blacken the reputation of Catholic clergy, using issues such as rape and child abuse.

It is probably fair to assume from the general tone of his letter that he feels most other media outlets likewise try to smear Catholic priests unfairly.

It is important, though, not simply to ‘blame the media’ for this, and just leave it at that. We must go beyond that stage, and ask what are the motivations behind this behaviour in the media.