It was not only a very good article but a very rewarding one as well. The entire funeral proceeding actually lasted beyond 3 days. It went on in the TV News programs for 2 weeks. It was repeated with exaltation about Russert's greatness as a journalist. For me it was an amazing show since I never considered Russert to be a journalist. His weekly standard of reading his guests previous quotes, his inability to really conduct an intelligent dialog was appalling & annoying. The news media have positioned themselves as celebrities to be exalted much as the second rate Hollywood celebrities. Their coverage of a mediocre journalist was astounding. Consider the short shrift they give to people who have made major contributions to the world. Especially those whose accomplishments were done before some of these news people were adults. So their lack of knowledge of the accomplishments of important individuals is appalling. We are so fortunate to have Lewis Lapham demonstrate such courage and intelligence to write this eminently excellent article.