News in a Changing World

Julia Batoki

jb478621@ohio.edu

Journalism in The Modern Era

Information found in the introduction and first chapter of The Elements of Journalism states that journalism as a field and as an information source needs to evolve and change. This is because of the technology that is readily available in today, as well as the changing method in which as a society, we now absorb our news. 

Journalism's goals and purpose have differed from what they once were. As a result, people have begun to believe that journalism as a whole has become displaced, and that its role as fact-finders is obsolete. Some believe that regular citizens and technology can easily replace the outdated journalist. However, others believe the opposite side of the spectrum, that journalism and fact finding are the only acceptable methods to receiving the news accurately and that technology and bloggers should not be relied upon. 

Opposing Views

The Displacement Theory of News states that journalism can transition away from its traditional stance of researching, interviewing, finding facts, and reporting them. Instead, this theory explains that journalists should verify other sources of information, from the internet or blogs, and interpret in their own way. 

The goal in this is to use modern technology and resources to change journalism. In addition, it is believed that they should get their information from the public instead of from their own sources, and afterwards interpret it. Oppositely, some believe that the role and job of a traditional, fact-finding journalist is nonexpendable and cannot be replaced. 

What's the Solution? 

According to a recent article, the overall purpose of journalism is to provide the communities that they serve with the best, most accurate information that they can in order to help them make informed decisions.

 In The Elements of Journalism, the best way to accomplish this is to merge the two opposing beliefs and meet in the middle for a compromise. This can be done by utilizing all forms of technology, from social media and blogs, to video uploads, and incorporating these sources as one of information. This would allow technology, journalists, and regular citizens to work together. 

The authors state that each one of these entities brings their own strengths to the table of Journalism. Technology adds accuracy and a new perspective while journalists bring expertise and an inside access into otherwise inaccessible sources. 

Furthermore, the civilian population adds additional knowledge and new observations. Together, the field of journalism can evolve and change with today's modern times. It can grow, become more efficient and trustworthy, and maintain its importance in our day-to-day lives. 

Image Source: Mobile and Social Media Journalism