Its aggression and sheer size terrify rival media firms.

In Libya crowds have risen up against a fearsome dictator.

But he concedes that academics in other countries are not thrilled by the American plans.

She told, appalled, of friends telephoned in the evening by their private employers with work requests.

"That the gold necklace you wish to acquire is hanging round your neck. That the snake you are so frightened of is only a rope on the ground".