How reliable is the History Channel?

Originally posted by what_is_history "Ice Road Truckers."

You shouldn't really mock "Ice Road Truckers". Along with "Dogfights" its been one of the biggest documentary hits this year. Its enormously popular- the figures are staggering.

Originally posted by King John I think what some of you are missing is that most of these "documentaries"/programs are not actually made by the History Channel they are simply bought from smaller production companies. Simply put these programs are not made by historians but rather amatuers and hobbyists whose schooling does not include historical research (I know because I went to undergrad to do just that, I quickly changed my mind as to what I want to do). On top of that there are time constraints that require editing and cutting of certain information. Then you have the shows like Wild West Tech or Mail Call both of which nobody should be watching anyway. When it comes to TV I stay to PBS, National Geographic, Discovery, and the Food Network.

Well usually the historical basis of these films rests with three things:
1. Any expert brought in.
2. Any prior books, magazines or media that can be found.
3. Researchers- who usually aren't experts.
Documentaries usually try and provide a balanced view from the sources available, modified of course by the opinions of the various people involved. Almost all historical programs are made by "amateurs". That said one has to be particuarly careful about the main force behind a program. Good examples being all that Alex Jones schlock which despite its constant repetition of historical "examples" manages to misrepresent or get wrong the vast majority. Similarly John Pilger's recent "War on Democracy" refused to back up claims, provided no context, was entirely one sided and pandered to Pilgers own preconceptions.

I rather liked the wonderful word thruth and got the thrust of it all! But seriously Prophet what are you talking about? All of a sudden we have another word homophobe and without knowing what caused your sudden outburst. Do you mean a lover of men or lover of mankind? The latter is quite in order when talking about Christianity but the former belongs on another thread. You will find those on this board do have a wide understanding, but make sure what you talk about right now has to do with the subject!

Originally posted by Prophet Are you accusing me of being some kind of homophobe?

     I really don't know if you are or not, but the fact that no one mentioned homophobes or homosexuality and you are being defensive about it will certainly give the impression that you are indeed a homophobe.

The "truth" about Christianity is dealt with on Christian channels 24/7, or is it? but well put Aelfgifu!

Anything on HC dealing with Christianity is usually couched from a critical and skeptical approach.  Avoid such shows if you want the truth.  P

UFO's? the truth is still out there, but those little green men escape every time! 

Has anyone ever purchased any of their documentaries?

Originally posted by Kevin History International and Discovery Civilization are much better. The History Channel it's self is pretty much history in name only.

Originally posted by elenos One thing that gets me is they advertise a program. let's say the building of the pyramids, and right at the first scene they show you a pyramid with the sun setting behind it. The commentator says in a hushed and rererent voice "This is a pyramid." You know right there and then the rest of the program will never rise beyond coffee table book trivia.

I think what some of you are missing is that most of these "documentaries"/programs are not actually made by the History Channel they are simply bought from smaller production companies. Simply put these programs are not made by historians but rather amatuers and hobbyists whose schooling does not include historical research (I know because I went to undergrad to do just that, I quickly changed my mind as to what I want to do). On top of that there are time constraints that require editing and cutting of certain information. Then you have the shows like Wild West Tech or Mail Call both of which nobody should be watching anyway. When it comes to TV I stay to PBS, National Geographic, Discovery, and the Food Network.