Research method:
1. Develop conclusion.
2. Gather data.
3. Ignore data that doesn't prove conclusion.
That’s pretty much it. Write the story, and fit the “facts” to prove the story. However, I see a pearl of hope here. Since the homicide rate for returning vets is much lower than the general population, we need to send EVERYONE to Iraq and that way, we will get the homicide rate of the general public DOWN to the rate of the returning veterans. (Take THAT NY Times)
1. Develop conclusion.
2. Gather data.
3. Ignore data that doesn't prove conclusion.
I think you give the Times too much credit for work they would never consider doing. This is the way I believe they do research.
1. Stumble upon a research report.
2. Develop a left leaning opinion of that reports conclusions.
3. Write an article that totally misrepresents the data and supports the preconceived leftist opinion already in the writer’s mind.