Almost certainly 2016 will be known as a year, if not the year, in which pundits, commentators, opinion writers, et al were proven wrong as a group. In a way, that is totally unsurprising, because they are never held accountable for their words.
Stating one's opinions, including forecasts, is essential in exercising free speech. Equally essential is being able to do so without being accountable. Other than possibly losing viewership or readership, leading to loss of reputation, expressing one's opinion carries with it little real world accountability. And this totally differs from the words and actions of those about whom the pundits, commentators, opinion writers, et al ply their trade.
Stated differently, it is very easy to criticize when your actions have no actual consequences. And so it should be. Free speech, whether accurate or offensive, is absolutely crucial to our country. If pundits, commentators, opinion writers, et al were actually held accountable, it would be stifling.
Just consider the ramifications. Were the social activist/commentator held accountable for his/her mistakes or offensive commentary, it is most likely end their time on radio or television. Just think of all the shows that would be cancelled on MSNBC, Fox, ABC, CBS, and the like. Likewise for Twitter, Facebook, etc.
All the so-called news offerings would see a drastic reduction, which would not reflect positively on free speech.
So while the pundits, commentators, opinion writers, et al offer their views without fear of true accountability, much to the aggravation of those upon whom the pundits, commentators, opinion writers, et al write and speak, it is absolutely essential they be able to do so in a free society that values free speech.
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