Think Good Journalism is Dead? You’re Wrong – Two Must-See Economic Pieces

A lot can be said about the way the press covered this year’s past economic meltdown, but all shortcomings aside a select few outlets have been publishing deep investigated pieces analyzing and deconstructing the past year’s events. Two stories in particular stick out and I would highly suggest taking the time to read and watch them.

Eight Days ~ New Yorker

Found in the September 21, 2009 issue of the New Yorker, Columbia Journalism Professor James B. Stewart, painstakingly reconstructs the eight day period from Lehman Brothers demise to the government creation of TARP funds and the brash A.I.G. government bailout. The story, just over 23 pages, is full of quotes, high-level opinions, and insider access only attained by the best journalistic research methods. Plan on taking at least a few hours to read and process this piece.

Inside the Meltdown ~ PBS Frontline

In this sure to be award winning investigative hour, Frontline breaks down and dissects Ben Bernake’s decision to let Lehman Brothers fail. The online site also has high-level analysis, added interviews, extra videos, and an interactive timeline. Plan on taking at least an hour to view the full piece and then another hour to poke around the site and experience what is sure to be some of the best online journalism out there.