Journalism: Meaning & Principles

Journalism: Meaning & Definition

• Journalism is the production and distribution of reports and news on recent events.
• The term "journalism" applies to citizen journalists who use methods of gathering information and literary techniques.
• Journalistic media include print, television, radio, internet, and, historically, newsreels.
• Journalism is the activity of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information. It is the product of these actions.

Characteristics and Practices

• Journalism is differentiated from other activities and products through specific practices and characteristics.
• Essential elements of journalism are vital for democratic societies. A more democratic society tends to have more news and information.

Core Principles of Journalism

• Journalism is a form of communication based on asking and answering questions, such as Who? What? How? Where? When?, and Why?.
• Journalism encompasses activities contributing to gathering, selecting, and processing news and current affairs for various media such as press, radio, TV, film, cable, and internet.
• Journalism is defined as a discipline that involves the collection, analysis, verification, and presentation of news concerning current events, trends, issues, and people. Journalists are those who practice journalism.
• Journalism, at its core, is the act of gathering, verifying, and disseminating information to the public. It plays a significant role in keeping society informed while holding individuals and institutions accountable, prompting dialogue on critical issues.

Journalism as a Profession and Craft

• Journalism, as a vocation, is notably different from established careers like medicine, law, or teaching. It does not require specialized educational qualifications, unlike other established professions.
• There are no prerequisites or limitations for entry to journalism.
• Journalism has always been and remains an open profession, regardless of educational background or prior experience
• Journalism lacks a specific body of knowledge defining the profession or its relationships with clients like readers, advertisers, public relations officials, and other stakeholders.

Journalism as a Business

• As a business and trade, journalism involves regularly publishing content for profit, with news serving as the primary commodity.
• Profitability demands attracting advertisers and readers through strategies focused on circulation and readership.

Key Aspects and Practices

• What it covers: News is about current events, trends, and happenings impacting communities and individuals. Features delve into specific topics, often with a human interest angle. This also encompasses Commentary and Investigations.
• Commentary: Journalism analyzes news events and issues, presenting various perspectives and opinions.
• Investigations: Investigative reporting uncovers truths and exposes wrongdoing through research and careful reporting.

Who Practices Journalism

• Reporters: Conduct research and interviews with sources to create and convey news pieces.
• Editors: Verify information, fact-check content, and ensure the quality of published work.
• Photojournalists: Use images to present stories and complement written narratives.
• Broadcast Journalists: Report and present news on radio and television platforms.
• Data Journalists: Use data analysis and visualization to discover patterns and share information about the findings.

Where Journalism Happens

• Traditional Media: Newspapers, magazines, radio, and television channels
• Digital Media: Online news websites, blogs, podcasts, and social media platforms.
• Independent Journalism: Freelance journalists or smaller, non-profit news organizations operate in various forms.

Impact of Journalism and Evolution

• Journalism plays a vital role in informing citizens, fostering public discourse, and promoting democracy, particularly through digital media's impact.
• The digital age has introduced accessibility and innovation in journalism. However, challenges such as misinformation, media consolidation, and financial pressures still exist.