The Economist magazine, described by its own (boastful, but arguably true) words, is “the premier online source for the analysis of world business and current affairs, providing authoritative insight and opinion on international news, world politics, business, finance, science and technology, as well as overviews of cultural trends and regular industry, business and country special reports.” And has, in the last 18 months, published five stories about (or mentioning) Second Life, several of which were also chosen to be read on the weekly “This Week In The Economist” podcast.

Although Economist articles are published anonymously, it is likely that all were written by Economist Bay Area-Technology Correspondent Andreas Kluth. Extensive (OK, not so extensive) investigation has failed to scent any whiff of editorial impropriety, and absolutely no evidence has been uncovered that the CEO of Linden Lab, Mr. Philip Rosedale, coerced Mr. Kluth to write such a slew of stories and shout-outs about his company. Maybe SL is simply rich fodder for the New Media journalist. Decide for yourself:

Look for the next story around Christmastime.