I don’t think much of Jeff McMullen’s style of moderating, but it’s great to see more debate-style shows on Aussie TV. Last night’s episode of “Difference of Opinion” was frustrating but well worth the watch. Last night he had an “expert panel” including Julian Burnside QC to debate the need for our anti-terrorism laws and whether they are being used or abused. The debate was a major clusterfuck. On the left side of the panel they had two guys who might have stepped out of FOX. If they were any further right they would have been goose-stepping. On the right hand side of the panel they have Burnside and another academic, neither of whom were able to get a word in sideways. Some major idiot from Canada kept interrupting them (and the audience, and McMullen, who couldn’t, or wouldn’t, shut him up).
That said, the debate is a necessary one and I applaud the ABC for attempting to have it.
Sorry for the ‘idiot’. They are in the minority up here. We’ll “take care” of him promptly. 🙂
I find difference of opinion very frustrating to watch. It tries hard, but often ends up being the soapbox for the loudest person – much like what happened last night. Give me SBS’ Insight anyday! It’s not perfect, but a much better format than Difference of Opinion, and much better moderated, with host Jenny Brockie asking pointed and relevant questions.
michael – unfortunately you already exported this idiot down here. He’s an academic at some university who obviously was on a tight budget due to cutbacks.
Dek – yeah I like Brockie as well, but any genuine debate TV is good TV for me. I can hone my interviewing mad skillz.
Yeah i agree with you. The rightie’s on the panel had some ‘spy-movie’ type complex. They were sooo wound up, its hard to imagine they could have a clear thought between them.
In comparison, Julian & Jude were researched in their opinions, considered and rational in their response.
It would be frightening to be detained by people like James and Carl which can’t see the human rights violations or seem to think its no particular issue.
These people didn’t have the respect and ability to contain themselves while in a televised debate, net alone what would happen behind closed doors.
Looks like you need to watch a LOT more debate TV then 😛