Why journalism still matters

Author / Creator

Schudson, Michael, author

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Physical

Summary

"Can we talk about the news media without proclaiming journalism either our savior or the source of all evil? It can be done by putting the problems and prospects of journalism in historical and co...

"Can we talk about the news media without proclaiming journalism either our savior or the source of all evil? It can be done by putting the problems and prospects of journalism in historical and comparative perspective and recognizing that political institutions shape news as much as new shapes political attitudes and institutions. Adopting this approach, Michael Schudson examines journalism in relation to democratic theory and practice, its own economic crisis, and recent discussions of "fake news." In contrast to those who suggest that journalism has had its day, Schudson argues that it has become more important than ever for liberal democracies; it is the keystone institution among a set of institutions that invite public attention to and public monitoring of government. If people are to be swayed from positions they have already staked out, and if government officials are to be forced to respond to charges that they have behaved corruptly or rashly or unwisely, information holding them to account must come from reliable organizations. The journalists who will matter most are those who demand of themselves the highest standards of verification, fact-checking, and original research. That is still what professional journalism aspires to do and what it often successfully provides. This timely defense of journalism, both scholarly and spirited, will be of great value to anyone concerned about the future of news and of democracy." --Back cover.

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