The following argumentative essay is compiled from several discussions and articles on politics and the news media in the United States. It is worth discussing not only as an exercise in critical...

The following argumentative essay is compiled from several discussions and articles on politics and the news media in the United States. It is worth discussing not only as an exercise in critical thinking but also because it raises an important issue. Identify the main argument and the sub-arguments in the following essay. Every citizen-and this includes every journalist-has certain responsibilities. One is to ensure that, as far as it is within our power, we treat our fellow citizens fairly. Another responsibility we all have is not to deliberately pursue policies that we know will deter honest and honorable people from entering public life. The news media have shown themselves to be flagrantly irresponsible on both counts. They are persistently unfair to politicians, and by driving good people out of politics they ensure political mediocrity: what could be more reprehensible?