News Matters response

The notion that journalism is a public service is not widely spread among society. Most journalists might certainly understand it that way, but in recent times it’s been more than clear that the public doesn’t completely trust in the capabilities or rather, the motivation, of the Fourth Estate to exercise as a watchdog of government. Certainly, this lack of trust has hindered the ability of the media to exercise as checks and balances with the three branches of government. It’s very hard to demand accountability when the public trust doesn’t back the effort.
The first chapter of News Matters is a powerful reminder of the responsibilities of the media, as well as the consequences of both good journalism and bad journalism. It’s a good reminder that when exercised correctly, journalism can impact the lives of the community it serves in a highly positive manner. Corrupt officials and the party structures that sustain them can be brought down with methodic and responsible use of good journalistic practices. People can learn of government programs that can have a meaningful impact on their lives, or if they are going to have their flight canceled because of an incoming storm.
On the other hand, bad journalism can have dire consequences. The book is right to point out that there is a myriad of causes that can lead to a poor practice of the craft. Laziness, economic motivations as well as downright partisanship can lead to a “dangerously uninformed” public (6).
The collapse of the real estate bubble in 2008 was a grossly under reported. The socio-economic effects of a preventable crisis like that one lasted for at least half a decade. The misinformation campaign during the 2016 election directed by the Russian government was extremely likely to affect the electoral result of said election, on top of sowing discord among voters from across the political spectrum. Misinformation, or the lack of reliable information, can leave people exposed by failing to provide the tools to make good decisions about their everyday life or their future.

In the end, what this chapter lays out, is the undeniable importance that good journalism in today’s world. It’s hard to disagree with the core principles displayed in the text. Maybe some of the ideas are not revolutionary, but they are more current than ever. Technology can be a powerful tool in which journalism can rely on to perform more efficiently. It’s also an incredible instrument for dissemination, but it will require some adjustments. This where, maybe, the greatest challenge resides. Adapting the practice of journalism to a new paradigm that hasn’t quite been resolved yet.


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