" If bloggers are to improve our public discourse – helping busy and usually uninformed people make sense of the world – it is necessary to use some sort of standard with which to judge their reliability. Perhaps the answer (strictly advisory) is a body of their peers. Perhaps not. "
- Eric Alterman

In a world where information flows rapidly through various digital channels, bloggers play an increasingly significant role in shaping public discourse. This statement highlights the importance of establishing a standard to measure the reliability and credibility of these writers, especially as they help people navigate complex issues without requiring deep expertise or extensive time investment.

The quote suggests that while there is no definitive answer on how to establish such standards, one possible approach could be through peer evaluation within the blogging community. This implies that bloggers might benefit from a system where their peers assess and comment on the quality of their work. Such an assessment could provide readers with valuable insights into which sources are trustworthy and reliable, thereby enhancing overall public understanding. However, the quote also leaves room for alternative methods beyond peer review, acknowledging the complexity and variability of evaluating content in today's digital age.

Eric Alterman is a renowned American journalist and author known for his incisive commentary on politics and media. A professor at the CUNY Graduate School of Journalism, he brings extensive experience and deep knowledge to discussions about public discourse and journalism standards. His insights often reflect on the broader implications of communication in society and the responsibilities that come with it.