Persuasion is rampant in media, politics, economics, marketing, advertising, relationships...everywhere really, so yes, I get what you are saying about those in certain positions being capable of adjusting the truth where and when it's beneficial for them to do so.
It's fun to get re-excited about things though, isn't it?! :)
I had no idea you used to be in "newspapers"! I'll be very curious to see what you dig up on Marshall with this challenge. Why is FTG so interested in it? or do you know? I'm always curious as to people's motivation behind their actions...it's always very telling in some way; not negative or positive, just in terms of information surrounding it.