On an episode of “Real Time,” host Bill Maher and “Family Guy” creator Seth MacFarlane had a heated argument over the credibility of news media, as seen in a video posted to Reddit Friday. .

of conversationinitially focused on the negative impact social media comments have on public perception, but quickly evolved into a broader discussion about journalistic integrity. MacFarlane defended the traditional reporting process, stressing that journalists are committed to investigating, fact-checking and adhering to editorial oversight. “If they were wrong, they would have to print a retraction document,” MacFarlane told Maher.

He expressed frustration with how easily public opinion can be swayed by comments on platforms like the New York Times, and said readers should speak directly with editors if they find content offensive or biased. He advocated dialogue. Mr. Maher then expressed his concerns about the sensitive issue of media bias. “Or it's just tilted. What if it's just tilted? What if it's not wrong, it's just tilted? That's what someone pointed out in the article. 0” Maher said.

Bill Maher slams 'partisan' 'Family Guy' creator Seth MacFarlane for doing 'exactly what Donald Trump wants' https://t.co/YHaI4vDmik pic.twitter.com/LTXqwtKaD0

— New York Post (@nypost) January 27, 2024

The exchange became more heated as Mr Ma admitted he had more mistrust of journalists than Mr MacFarlane, who claimed to trust certain reporters. Maher argued that many media outlets prioritize reporting over unbiased truth. “Everything I read, whatever the source, is only half the truth. They print the story. They don't print the truth,” Maher said.

In response to this stance, MacFarlane warned against echoing sentiments echoed by Donald Trump, who is famous for criticizing the news media. Maher clarified that his own skepticism of the media is not akin to Trump's attacks, emphasizing his belief that news often caters to viewers' biases rather than presenting the full picture. I objected. (Related: 'The View' co-host says he's 'offended' by Fanny Willis' affair allegations)

“They print half as much as they want, which is going to attract people like you, who are partisan, very partisan, who want to read something that's like, 'Oh, this makes me feel better.' “I do,” Maher added. The discussion also included contributions from panelist Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff of California, who said that people tend to consume news that is consistent with and reinforces their existing beliefs. Ta. Maher concluded by criticizing the media for pandering to audience preferences and suggesting that this practice undermines the objective distribution of news.

“They're in the business of stroking the audience. That's what the media does,” Maher added.