what is a journalism essay

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Journalism and Journalistic Writing: Introduction

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Journalism is the practice of gathering, recording, verifying, and reporting on information of public importance. Though these general duties have been historically consistent, the particulars of the journalistic process have evolved as the ways information is collected, disseminated, and consumed have changed. Things like the invention of the printing press in the 15 th century, the ratification of the First Amendment in 1791, the completion of the first transatlantic telegraph cable in 1858,   the first televised presidential debates in 1960, and more have broadened the ways that journalists write (as well as the ways that their readers read). Today, journalists may perform a number of different roles. They still write traditional text-based pieces, but they may also film documentaries, record podcasts, create photo essays, help run 24-hour TV broadcasts, and keep the news at our fingertips via social media and the internet. Collectively, these various journalistic media help members of the public learn what is happening in the world so they may make informed decisions.

The most important difference between journalism and other forms of non-fiction writing is the idea of objectivity. Journalists are expected to keep an objective mindset at all times as they interview sources, research events, and write and report their stories. Their stories should not aim to persuade their readers but instead to inform. That is not to say you will never find an opinion in a newspaper—rather, journalists must be incredibly mindful of keeping subjectivity to pieces like editorials, columns, and other opinion-based content.

Similarly, journalists devote most of their efforts to working with primary sources, whereas a research paper or another non-fiction piece of writing might frequently consult an encyclopedia, a scholarly article, or another secondary or tertiary source. When a journalist is researching and writing their story, they will often interview a number of individuals—from politicians to the average citizen—to gain insight into what people have experienced, and the quotes journalists collect drive and shape their stories. 

The pages in this section aim to provide a brief overview of journalistic practices and standards, such as the ethics of collecting and reporting on information; writing conventions like the inverted pyramid and using Associated Press (AP) Style; and formatting and drafting journalistic content like press releases.

Journalism and Journalistic Writing

These resources provide an overview of journalistic writing with explanations of the most important and most often used elements of journalism and the Associated Press style. This resource, revised according to The Associated Press Stylebook 2012 , offers examples for the general format of AP style. For more information, please consult The Associated Press Stylebook 2012 , 47 th edition.

Essay on Journalism

Students are often asked to write an essay on Journalism in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Journalism

Understanding journalism.

Journalism is the activity of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information. It’s a way to keep people informed about the world around them.

Types of Journalism

There are different types of journalism, like investigative, news, reviews, and feature stories. Each type has its own purpose and style.

Role of Journalists

Journalists play an important role in society. They help people understand complex issues, hold powerful people accountable, and share inspiring stories.

Challenges in Journalism

Journalism faces challenges like fake news and bias. It’s important for journalists to be fair, accurate, and truthful in their reporting.

250 Words Essay on Journalism

Introduction.

Journalism, a cornerstone of democratic societies, plays a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and fostering transparency. It acts as a conduit for information, providing the public with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions.

The Pillars of Journalism

The pillars of journalism, truth and accuracy, independence, fairness and impartiality, humanity, and accountability, form the bedrock of this profession. Journalists strive to report the truth, corroborating their facts from multiple sources to ensure accuracy. Independence from influence, whether political or commercial, allows journalists to maintain impartiality and fairness in their reporting.

Journalism encompasses several types, including investigative, news, reviews, and feature writing. Investigative journalism delves into issues of public interest, often uncovering scandals or corruption. News journalism, the most common type, reports daily happenings. Reviews and feature writing offer in-depth analyses of topics, ranging from books and movies to societal trends.

The Impact of Digitalization

The advent of digitalization has revolutionized journalism. It has facilitated real-time reporting and expanded the reach of journalists, transcending geographical limitations. However, it has also given rise to challenges such as fake news and clickbait journalism, undermining the credibility of this profession.

In conclusion, journalism is a dynamic field that continually evolves to meet societal needs. Despite the challenges posed by digitalization, the core principles of journalism remain unchanged. As we navigate through an era of information overload, the importance of journalism in disseminating reliable and accurate information cannot be overstated.

500 Words Essay on Journalism

Journalism, a profession of unveiling truth and shaping public opinion, stands as a pillar of modern democratic society. It plays a crucial role in the dissemination of information, ensuring that society remains informed about significant events, ideas, and trends. This essay will explore the nature of journalism, its evolution, and its impact on society.

The Nature of Journalism

At its core, journalism is about storytelling. Journalists are storytellers who communicate news about local, national, and international events to the public. They seek truth and report it in a fair, accurate, and unbiased manner. This truth-seeking function is essential in a democratic society, where informed citizens make decisions about who should govern and how they should be governed.

Evolution of Journalism

Over the years, journalism has evolved significantly. The advent of print media in the 15th century marked the beginning of modern journalism. However, the 20th century brought about a revolution in the field with the introduction of radio and television. These mediums expanded the reach of news, making it more accessible to the public.

The 21st century ushered in the era of digital journalism. The Internet has transformed the way news is produced, distributed, and consumed. Social media platforms and blogging sites have democratized journalism, allowing anyone with an Internet connection to share news and views. This has led to the rise of citizen journalism, which has both enriched and complicated the journalistic landscape.

Impact of Journalism on Society

Journalism’s impact on society is profound. It shapes public opinion, influences policy decisions, and holds those in power accountable. Investigative journalism, in particular, plays a critical role in exposing corruption, abuse of power, and other societal ills.

However, journalism also has its challenges. The rise of fake news and misinformation, particularly on social media, has raised questions about the credibility of journalism. The line between fact and opinion is often blurred, leading to biased reporting and public distrust.

In conclusion, journalism plays a pivotal role in society. It has evolved significantly over the centuries, adapting to technological advancements and societal changes. Despite its challenges, journalism remains a vital institution. It is a powerful tool that can be used to educate, inform, and influence. As we navigate the digital age, the importance of ethical, responsible journalism cannot be overstated. Through it, we can ensure that truth prevails, and democracy thrives.

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Free Journalism Essay Examples & Topics

A journalism essay is a type of paper that combines personal records and reports. Besides news and facts, it should contain a story. An angle that creates a unique narrative of the events you are describing is crucial. However, let’s start with the definition.

No matter how often people hear about journalism, they still might get confused about what it is. It is an act of informative writing about news stories. It can be digital and non-digital, print and non-print. Journalists strive to present information in an interesting way while staying true to the source.

If you have seen journalistic article examples, you know there are two types. News can cover “hard stories”, meaning world events and politics, and “softer stories” about celebrities, science, etc. Journalism as a profession is multidimensional in nature. It can include texts, photography, interviews, and more. Content varies between different categories, such as literary reportage and yellow journalism.

Here, our experts have combined tips about how to write a good journalistic essay. We gathered information that will be useful for starting research and completing it. Moreover, you will find journalism topic ideas. You can use them for inspiration or to practice. Finally, underneath the article you will discover some stellar journalistic essay examples written by other students.

How to Write a Journalistic Essay

In this section, you’ll find tips that can help you start writing. However, nothing is more vital than choosing an appropriate journalism essay topic beforehand.

Before picking the subject, ask yourself several questions:

• What themes do I want to explore?
• What will my story be about?
• What points do I want to make?
• What is my attitude towards the topic?

Answering these questions can allow you to improve your storytelling. What’s more, look for one that can allow you to write intimately. Personal touches and views will influence your paper immensely. With all that in mind, try our free topic generator to get more ideas.

To write an outstanding journalistic essay, you should try these tips:

• Gather facts and references first.

Collect all the information you may need for your paper. For a story in journalism, you may be required to interview people or visit a location. Most importantly, you’ll have to research online. Also, you can read stories written by other people on the Internet to gain a better perspective.

• Organize your ideas and arguments before writing.

A good story is always organized. The structure of a journalistic should represent an inverted pyramid. The most crucial facts appear on the top, less important details go further, and extra information stays on the bottom. You can reflect in your writing. Organize all your arguments before writing, sticking to a logical structure.

• Rely on storytelling.

The story should become the main focus of your work. The writing should serve it and grab the reader’s attention from the start. Think about storytelling techniques that can keep your reader interested till the very end.

• Work on your style and language.

Another essential technique to keep your work both logical and engaging is to write in short sentences. If you search for any journalistic writing examples, you’ll see that’s how journalists write. The main goal of your paper is to deliver a clear and strong message. So, working on your style is going to help you further this agenda.

21 Journalism Essay Topics

There are so many journalism topics you can write about, and it can sometimes be challenging to stick to one. If you are still unsure what to describe and explore in your paper, this section can help you make this choice.

Here are some original journalism topic ideas:

• The way race impacts the news in different states in the US.
• Super Bowl as a phenomenon is more important than the game.
• Why people refuse to believe in climate change.
• How have sports changed international politics?
• Is creative writing in high school an essential subject?
• How vital is transparency in broadcast journalism?
• Is media responsible for the Covid-19 crisis in the US?
• Journalism as a profession can help change the world.
• A privacy issue between British journalism and the royal family.
• Are social media and blogging the future of journalism?
• The role of religion and race in Hollywood.
• Why has the Chinese economy risen so much over the past decade?
• How can media help in battling poverty in developing countries?
• Can music be used as political propaganda?
• Connections between social media and depression.
• Should mobile phones be allowed in educational institutions?
• Has the Internet impacted the way how newspapers and articles are written?
• Should fake news be banned on social media?
• What are the biggest challenges of investigative journalism?
• Can reality television be viewed as a type of journalism?
• How can athletes impact social awareness?

Thank you for reading the article! We hope you will find it helpful. Do not hesitate to share this article or a list of journalism essay examples with others. Good luck with your assignment!

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News Writing Fundamentals

One of the most fundamental differences between journalism and other forms of writing is the way journalists obtain the information they write about. Journalists obtain information through a variety of reporting techniques, which can include interviewing sources, looking through government documents, researching old articles, and observing events firsthand.

Good news writing begins with good, accurate reporting. Journalists perform a public service for citizens by presenting truthful facts in honest, straight-forward articles.

News Values

Journalists commonly use six values to determine how newsworthy a story or elements of a story are. Knowing the news values can help a journalist make many decisions, including:

What information to give first in a news article, and in the lede

Which articles to display on a newspaper’s front page

What questions to ask in an interview

The six news values are:

Timeliness- Recent events have a higher news value than less recent ones.

Proximity- Stories taking place in one’s hometown or community are more newsworthy than those taking place far away.

Prominence- Famous people and those in the public eye have a higher news value than ordinary citizens.

Uniqueness/oddity- A story with a bizarre twist or strange occurrences. “Man bites dog” instead of “dog bites man.”

Impact- Stories that impact a large number of people may be more newsworthy than those impacting a smaller number of people.

Conflict- “If it bleeds, it leads.” Stories with strife, whether it’s actual violence or not, are more interesting.

The newsworthiness of a story is determined by a balance of these six values. There is no set formula to decide how newsworthy a story is, but in general, the more of these six values a story meets, the more newsworthy it is.

Libel is defined as the published defamation of a person’s character based on misleading or inaccurate facts. Newspaper reporters can often run into issues of libel because it is their job to write truthful articles about people that might not always be flattering.

Even though we live in a country with a free press, journalists cannot write anything they want. Reporters do not have the right to state something about a person that could damage their reputation and that is untruthful.

One of the easiest ways to protect oneself from libel is to make sure to always do accurate reporting and to attribute all information in an article. If you write something about someone that you’re unsure about, just ask yourself if it’s true, and how you know it’s true. Rumors, gossip, and information you received from an anonymous or unreliable source are all dangerous to report, and they could run you the risk of a libel case.

The lede (or lead) of a news article is the first sentence, usually written as one paragraph, that tells the most important information of the story. When writing a lede, it is helpful to use the “tell a friend” strategy. Imagine you had to sum up to a friend, in one sentence, what your story is about. How would you sum up quickly what happened? A story’s lede answers the “Five W’s” in a specific order: Who? What? When? Where? Why?

For example:

The Atlanta Police Department will hold a memorial service Wednesday at Holy Christ Church in Buckhead for fallen officer Lt. James Montgomery.

WHO: The Atlanta Police Department WHAT: will hold a memorial service WHEN: Wednesday WHERE: Holy Christ Church in Buckhead WHY: for fallen officer Lt. James Montgomery

Other Examples:

Gwinnett County Public Schools was awarded $250,000 early Wednesday as a finalist for what’s considered the Nobel Prize of public education.

A man beat an Army reservist in front of a Morrow Cracker Barrel, yelling racial slurs at her as he kicked her in the head, Morrow police said.

Examples courtesy of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Inverted Pyramid

News articles are written in a structure known as the “inverted pyramid.” In the inverted pyramid format, the most newsworthy information goes at the beginning of the story and the least newsworthy information goes at the end.

After you have written your story’s lede, order the information that follows in terms of most important to least important. There is NO formal conclusion in a journalism article the way there is in an essay or analysis paper.

Attributing information

ALL information in a news article MUST be attributed to the source where the reporter got his/her information. The reporter must indicate in his/her article where material was obtained from – from an interview, court documents, the Census, a Web site, etc. Direct quotes and paraphrasing can be used to attribute information obtained in an interview with a source.

According to a police report, the suspect threatened the cashier with a gun before running away with the money.

In a 500-page government report, investigators reported evidence that the army had committed crimes against humanity.

Integrating quotes

The first time a source is introduced in an article, you should use that source’s full name and title. After this initial reference, use the last name only.

“The swine flu vaccine is an incredible advance in modern medicine,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

When attributing a direct quote, always use the verb “said” and never any other verbs such as “explained,” “whispered,” etc. It is also more common to use the format “XXX said” instead of “said XXX.”

“The housing crisis is growing out of control,” Bernanke said.

Even when information from a source is not used in a direct quote and is paraphrased instead, it still must be attributed to that source.

Bernanke said the recession is probably over. The recession will most likely begin to recede in six to eight months, Bernanke said.

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What Is Journalistic Writing: Purpose, Features, Types, and 10 News Values

• by Anastasiya Yakubovska
• 26.04.2022 25.11.2024

Further in the article, you will learn about what journalistic writing is, its main purpose, what are the features and characteristics of journalistic style, get acquainted with three types of journalism, and at the end of the article, you will find information about how the media select news.

Not so long ago, people could get news only from local newspapers, radio, and television. Nowdays we have access to any information in any format 24/7 (thank you, Internet!).

The ways of obtaining information have changed, but the principles and features of journalism have remained the same.

Table of Contents

What is journalistic writing, and its main purpose.

• Features of Journalistic Writing 

How to Write a Journalistic Text: 3 Key Elements

Information genre and its types, analytical genre.

• Artistic-journalistic Types of Journalistic Writing 
• 10 News Values 

Journalistic writing is a style of writing that is used by the media to transmit news messages to a mass addressee (newspapers, television, radio, Internet).

Journalistic writing has two main purposes, which to some extent contradict each other:

• Informing . The main aim of journalistic writing is to inform the public about the event that has occurred or will occur in the future, while the journalist must be as objective as possible.
• Impact on the audience . In some cases, news reports may be overly emotional with a pronounced position of the author and his personal opinion. Such messages have a social assessment and appeal, influence the people and form public opinion.

Features of Journalistic Writing

Journalistic writing has some specific features by which it is easy to identify:

• Informative heading. The news headlines are quite long. From the title, it is clear what will be discussed in the news article. 
• The first sentence (paragraph or lead) summarizes the essence of the news. 
• The inverted pyramid principle . The priority, value, and usefulness of information decrease from the beginning of the text to its end.
• Sentences and paragraphs are mostly short.
• Lots of specifics and details.
• Readability, simplicity, competent presentation of information.
• Emotionality and evaluation.
• Frequent use of socio-political vocabulary (names of political parties, departments, economic and legal terms, etc.). 
• Focus on a mass audience.
• Rhetorical questions, exclamations, and repetitions.
• In addition to the main colloquial (informal) style used in journalism, there are slang and jargon words.
• post “What Is Scientific Writing Style: Characteristics, Types, and Examples”.
• “What Is Business Writing Style: Characteristics, Types, and Examples”.

There are three key components on which any journalistic text is built:

• Lead (or lede). This is the first sentence or main and opening paragraph of the news article. The lead is the “header” of the article, which outlines the main idea of the text. Often the lead is highlighted in a different font or color, usually, its length is from 3 to 5 lines of text.

Lead cannot be ignored. It can be sensational or dramatic, it can reveal the details of an event or briefly describe the news, it can amuse the reader or challenge him.

A news article lead looks like this:

“ Rescue operations are continuing in South Africa in an effort to save the lives of dozens of people who are missing following the floods in KwaZulu-Natal province. With more rain on its way, emergency teams face further peril as they search for survivors. “   bbc.com

2. Citation . 90% of all journalistic investigations are based on interviews or other primary sources. Therefore, it is not surprising that quotes have a special place in news reports.

Read also post “How to Write a Persuasive Article or Essay: Examples of Persuasive Argument”.

3. Brevity and readability. Sentences and paragraphs are short and simple. It does not mean that you will not find long compound sentences in the text. But in most cases – “brevity is the soul of wit.”

In addition, it is important not to overdo with terms. Still, the news articles should be understandable to the mass audience: if you used the term “legal nihilism”, be kind, and explain what it means (p.s.: legal nihilism is the denial of laws and rules/norms of behavior ). 

Journalism Genres and Types of Journalistic Writing

There are three genres of journalistic writing:

• Informational : reportage, interview, information note, informational report. The main function is to communicate information: what, where, when, and under what circumstances it happened or will happen.
• Analytical : conversation, review , article, survey, correspondence. The primary function is to influence the public. There are the author’s reasoning, argumentation, analysis of the event, personal conclusions, and assessment of what is happening.
• Artistic-journalistic : essay , feuilleton, pamphlet, profile essay. These genres used to get a figurative, emotional idea of an event or fact.

Let’s take a closer look at each genre.

Note as a Type of Journalistic Writing

A note is a short message about a new event or fact. The main features are the reliability of the fact, novelty, and brevity.

“The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were accompanied by two of their children as they joined other royals for the Easter Sunday service at Windsor Castle. Prince George was dressed in a dark blue suit like his father while Princess Charlotte’s dress matched her mother Catherine’s light blue outfit . Several of their second cousins, such as Mia Tindall and Savannah and Isla Phillips, also attended. The Queen was not at the service – one of the staples of the family’s year. The 95-year-old monarch, who has been suffering mobility issues recently. was also absent from the traditional Maundy Service last Thursday where special coins were given to 96 men and 96 women .”   bbc.com

Read also “How to Write a News Story”.

Reportage is a message from the scene. Features: efficiency, objective coverage of events, the reporter is an eyewitness or participant in what is happening.

Example: television report (live broadcast from the scene), report in the print media after collecting and processing information.

An interview is the receipt of information during a conversation between an interviewer (journalist) and an interviewee. 

Examples: informational interviews to collect up-to-date data on an air crash that has occurred (for example, an interview with eyewitnesses); interview investigation; personal interview or interview-portrait.

Informational Report

A report is a chronologically sequential, detailed report of an event.

Example: a report on hostilities, a report on the results of a meeting, a conference, a government or court session.

Conversation or Dialogue

A conversation (dialogue) is a type of interview when a journalist acts not just as an intermediary between the hero and the viewer, but communicates with the interlocutor on an equal footing thanks to his achievements, experience, and professionalism.

Example: TV show with artists. 

A review is a critical judgment or discussion that contains an assessment and a brief analysis of a literary work, scientific publication, analysis of a work of art, journalism, etc. 

Examples: book review , play review, movie review , TV show review, game review.

An article is a genre of journalism that expresses the author’s reasoned point of view on social processes, on various current events or phenomena.

After reading an analytical article, the reader receives the information he needs and then independently reflects on the issues of interest to him.

The subject of the article is not the event itself, processes, or phenomena, but the consequences they cause.

Examples: an article on the political development of the country, a practical and analytical article on the rise in food prices, a polemical article (dispute) on teaching the basics of Orthodox culture.

Analytical Correspondence

Analytical correspondence is a message that gives information about an event or phenomenon (usually this is one significant fact).

Analytical correspondence may include fragments of a “live” report or a retelling of what is happening. But necessarily in such a message, there is a clarification of the causes of the event or phenomenon, the determination of its value and significance for society, and the prediction of its further development.

The primary source of this genre of journalistic writing is always the author of the publication (correspondent).

Artistic-journalistic Types of Journalistic Writing

Essay : a journalist not only describes a problem, an event, or a portrait of a person, based on factual data but also uses artistic methods of expressiveness. 

Examples: a portrait essay about the life of a famous person; historical essays , description of incidents, meetings with people during the author’s travel (essay by A. S. Pushkin “Journey to Arzrum”, 1829).

Feuilleton is a short note, essay, or article of a satirical nature, the main task of which is to ridicule “evil”.

Examples: satirical writers such as M.E. Saltykov-Shchedrin, I.A. Ilf, and E.P. Petrov.

A pamphlet is a satirical work or article, the purpose of which is to ridicule certain human vices, to denounce and humiliate a hero who appears to the author as a carrier of a dangerous social evil.

In a pamphlet, the author uses grotesque, hyperbole, irony, and sarcasm.

Examples: “Lettres provinciales” by the French scientist and philosopher Blaise Pascal, “The Grumbled Hive” by the English writer Bernard Mandeville, pamphleteers D.I. Pisarev with the pamphlet “Bees”, A.M. Gorky “The City of the Yellow Devil”, L.M. Leonov “The Shadow of Barbarossa”.

10 News Values

First of all, journalistic writing is associated with the media. A special place in the mass media is occupied by news articles : they are in demand and attract more readers.

Therefore, I propose to pay attention to one very interesting point: how is a news article written, and by what criteria are news “selected”?

So, 10 news values are:

• Relevance . The news must meet the needs and interests of the audience.
• Timeliness . Event information must be up to date and appear on time. No one will read the election results two weeks after the election.
• Clarity and unambiguity. Simple, understandable news is more accessible to the public, read more often, and is more interesting. 
• Predictability . Significant events usually have specific dates (for example, election day, the opening ceremonies of the Olympic Games, the football championship). Therefore, with the approach of such an event, public interest increases, and the news becomes more valuable.
• Unpredictability . On the other hand, unpredictable events and phenomena (natural disasters or crimes) also arouse public interest.
• Importance and scale of the event. War, elections, protests, sports games, and other important events require long and detailed press coverage.
• Composition . Sometimes, to dilute, for example, the negativity of the information flow, the editor selects news reports of the opposite nature: funny cases, love, romance, salvation, animals, adventure, risk, etc.
• Celebrities . News with the participation of politicians, artists, and sportsmen, due to their status and recognition, is more often published in the media and arouses increased interest.
• Leading countries in the world economy and politics. A strike, a natural disaster, or a plane crash in a developed country will immediately hit the media. But about the lack of drinking water in Ethiopia, you can write later.
• Negativity . The “bad” news is more popular.

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Introduction to Journalism

Checked : Yusel A. , Abigail C.

Latest Update 20 Jan, 2024

Table of content

If the events occur closest to the recipient

If the information is about well-known people, stories with conflict, a recent event, types of print media, what characteristics make a journalist.

Journalism can be defined as an act of writing news related themes for print and non-print media. It also involves a complex process of taking information, sieving, and placing it into context. A journalist is always faced with the burden of telling the truth.

Journalism serves as the watchdog and whistleblower for society. It combines everything from “hard news” to politics, public affairs, softer news (human interest and celebrity stories). In other words, journalism is also a source of entertainment. And most importantly, modern journalism also gives lifestyle messages, medical updates, education, and more.

Before anything can be published as newsprint or read from a telecast, it must go through the hands of an individual –the journalist. Journalistic writing is very different from other forms of writing; this is why a journalist must have gone through a formal education system for their profession. Several steps of journalism begin with gathering news from different sources and end with sharing the same through various channels.

The majority of people across the globe rely on journalism for information. This is because it acts as the eyes and ears of an average person. Without   journalism, the world would be without a mouthpiece for the governed. Governments or individuals would embezzle funds, and no one would know. One thing to note is that journalism has been on a rampant expansion over the past few decades. The biggest question, however, remains about what type of people is journalists. Research shows that the majority of journalists today are white makes, and it has been so since the 1970s. Even though many media outlets claim to focus on diversity, there is still a huge gap. Again, a journalist must have a specific set of skills, first an education in journalism, and then the ability to write excellent, or otherwise a nose for news. Hence, a journalism student must understand what the course is all about.

A good journalist must not only practice how to create words into an engaging, intriguing, and thought-provoking idea, but they must also understand what type of information can be considered news. News is defined as a retelling of an event, an event, or a fact that will pull people interest. It is usually about a recent incident and tries to avoid libel and slander on other people. A piece of information is not news unless it meets several conditions:

Such information becomes of the most significant interest to the people. Other happenings in other parts of the world tend to be of little relevance in their daily lives.

For instance, if a piece of information is referring to the recent events about a political leader in a community, such would be of great interest to the said community. Hence, such information is noteworthy and newsworthy. It may or may not impact directly to the trials and tribulations, or successes and failures of the person’s daily life, and it creates a great distraction for the monotony of their daily activities.

Conflict is always a source of debate and discussion. As such, a story that involves conflicting ideas or individuals may captivate an audience.

When a story such as a gulf oil spill goes on for many days, people begin to lose. Today's news revolves around a 24-hours cycle. Besides, today more people rely on audio and video than print; therefore, there is a lot of information to go around.

News can either be in the form of print media or   broadcast media . This means it can either be written for the audience to read to themselves, or spoken for the audience to listen. And news is the backbone of journalism; without news, there is not journalism.

Print journalism is the oldest form of the industry. It was already around decades before motion pictures were invented. Besides, journalism is all about writing interesting stories that can be read by or for the audience. Hence, is it vital for a beginning journalist to understand the various types of print. The three main divisions are;

Like the international weekly, Sunday edition, national, and many others.

These are separated to form another broad category of print media. They cater for different ages and subjects ranging from business, the arts, teen fashions, and many others. Magazines are usually printed on glossy paper with lots of colors and illustrations. They are designed for entertainment reading, except those intended to deliver hard-hitting news. Besides, they come after a certain period and offer educational information.

Book date back to the earliest days. They are the largest form of print media and cover different topics on a more extensive scale. Books offer a better view of the beginnings of journalism and writing before the invention of the printing press.

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First, journalists are considered a special breed of people. They have a set of skills that no other individual do, perhaps a common fascination shared by all is the printed word. All journalists love playing with words for their edification as well as professional purpose.

Journalists are professional and very cautious and conscious. They always tend to check their sources, wording, quotes, and even spelling. They are required to adhere to journalistic standards and ethics. They make mistakes, but they always know how to come back. They always abide by deadlines, datelines, and bylines and they give credit to their sources. Journalists report without fear or bias on the developing stories. This is perhaps the reason becoming a journalist may be hard than many think.

Journalism is one of the backbones of modern society. It has been serving generations, as the watchdogs and whistleblowers, ensuring balance in e every aspect of human existence. Even though technology has changed things today – with the introduction of social media and the internet, the essence of journalism remains the same. For a beginning journalist, it is critical to understand all the aspects of the industry. Note that journalism touches almost every area of society; hence it is one of the most important subjects in the world.

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Journalism is the act of writing about news related subjects for all mediums, print and non-print. It is also the complicated process of taking information and sifting through it, editing information, and giving it context. The journalist is always involved in the selection and presentation of what he or she considers to be noteworthy, and in meeting the standard of truth and honesty in reporting. Journalism incorporates everything from the "hard" news of politics and public affairs, to the softer side, which includes human interest and celebrity stories. Today, journalism also delivers lifestyle messages, medical updates, weather, science, education, and much more.

Before news can be published on newsprint or read from a teleprompter, however, the ideas must be penned by an individual. This person is a journalist, and is most likely schooled in the art of writing for news outlets. That is because journalistic writing is much different from any other style of composition. There are several steps to the process of journalism that begins with gathering news from the local, national, or world community, and ends when it is disseminated via any number of media channels. These include radio and television, newspapers and magazines, and now, the ever-present and ubiquitous Internet.

The majority of the global population relies on journalism to remain informed. Journalists act as the eyes and ears of the average person, and often as their mouthpiece, as well, which is not always advantageous. One thing is certain, journalism is an expanding profession. But, the question is, what type of people are journalists? The answer may surprise you. First and foremost, the majority of journalists are white males. Across the board, it is estimated that minority journalists comprise about 12 percent of any media outlet. This has been the reality since the late 1970s, even as most news organizations have claimed their goal is to increase the diversity of their newsrooms. Too, a journalist must have above average, or excellent, writing ability. This is not a skill that comes naturally to most people, but one that must be developed and honed. It is an expertise that takes hundreds, if not thousands, of hours to gain competency.

Therefore, if you are interested in pursuing a career in journalism, you must realize from the outset that you are going to spend many hours alone with your pen and paper or word processor, practicing how to craft words and ideas that will be engaging, intriguing, and thought-provoking.

Let us consider what is meant by the term "news" before moving forward. In its simplest form, news is a recounting of an event, an opinion, or a fact that will interest people. The account is usually of a current incident, and avoids libel or dishonest slandering of another individual. There are a number of conditions that are usually applied when a journalist is deciding if information is newsworthy. First, those events that occur closest to the recipients of news are usually of greatest interest. While people may be mildly interested in the happenings on the other side of the world, they tend to believe it has little relevance to their own daily existence.

Secondly, if information is about people that are well-known, this tends to be more interesting to the average individual and, therefore, noteworthy and newsworthy. While it may not impact a person to learn about the trials and tribulations, successes and failures, it is usually a welcome distraction to the sameness of a person's life. Next, people find information that is novel and timely to be newsworthy. People love to learn about quirky events, and breaking news has become one of the most common catchphrases in journalism today. Finally, stories with conflict will generally captivate an audience, although they will want closure as well. When a story, such as the gulf oil spill, goes on for weeks or months, people lose interest.

Also, 24 hour news cycles have changed the work dynamic of journalism. Deadlines that might have been once in a 24-hour period are now fluid, continuous, non-stop. Today, there is a much greater reliance on audio and video than print, and people who work in this part of the business consider themselves to be as much a part of the journalistic process as the writers and reporters. The paradigm of journalism is changing.

Types of Print Media

It might be helpful to the beginning journalist to better understand the various classifications of print journalism. The three main types are newspapers, magazines and books. Newspapers come in the form of international, weekly, Sunday edition, national, local, tabloid, and broadsheet. Circulation figures also delineate newspapers -- the larger the numbers, the greater the advertising revenues, and the more influential the paper.

Magazines are a separate and broad form of print mass communication. Generally speaking, they cater to different age groups and/or interests, such as business, the arts, teen fashion, homemaking and dozens of other subjects and specialized categories. They are usually printed on glossy paper, with lots of color and photographs, soft-bound and issued according to a calendar that appeals to their consumers. Some are weekly, others bi-weekly, and then there are the most common form – the monthly magazine. Except for those that are intended to deliver hard-hitting news, most magazines are designed to be recreational reading, with short articles and an abundance of pictures. Magazines are usually not meant to be educational, although they can be; nor are they expected to be used as reference, except for the special category of academic and peer-reviewed journals that are written to appeal to the educationally-immersed segment of the population.

Books are the third form of print media (hardcover and paperback). And these date back to the very earliest days of mankind. There was a time when books were created by hand, one at a time. Few were educated in the art of reading back in the days of ancient mankind, and even fewer had the ability to write or copy with the tools of the trade that were popular at that time, such as the quill and ink. While none of these scribes could be characterized as journalists, they give an almost romantic bend to the story of the history of writing and publishing. Moreover, it offers an authentic view of the beginnings of journalism and writing long before the invention of the printing press.

Characteristics of a Journalist

Journalists are a special breed. Perhaps the characteristic shared by all is a fascination with the printed word, and a tendency to manipulate it for their own edification as much as for professional purposes. Journalists love words. They love the infinite ways they can be arranged to convey a message or information to their audience. Writing may be a challenge, but it is never a chore. The journalist looks at the profession as a calling, and they tend to be motivated by a responsibility to keep the public accurately and honestly informed about events of import on a local, national, and international level.

Journalists are careful people for the most part. They tend to check their sources, check their wording, check their quotes, and even their spelling. Journalistic standards require this. On the rare occasion that a journalist is "outed" for providing false or misleading information, it becomes a badge of shame, much like Esther's scarlet letter. For many in the industry, it is nothing short of a professional sin to make a mistake accidentally or deliberately in the process of reporting to the public.

Journalists are very conscious of, and abide by deadlines, datelines, and bylines. Moreover, journalists always give credit to their resources and avoid reiterating what is only rumor – unless, of course, the journalist is in the business of rumors, such as in the entertainment industry.

Of course, there are other commonalities shared among budding and seasoned journalists, and all are of importance; but of equal value is developing a style, a voice, that is all your own -- one that is authentic, informative, and a reflection of the person that you are. As you can see, becoming a journalist is much more challenging than you might have first imagined!

The Future of Journalism

There is not a profession in the world that doesn't take time, now and again, to reflect not only on where they've been and who they are, but also where they are going. That is a subject that is always good for a hearty debate. What we do know is that journalism was like an ember; it began as an ash in ancient civilizations, and by the late 1600s, it became a single flame that, with proper tending and oversight, grew into the conflagration it is today. There is so much information now that people cry overload and are beginning to turn away, toward a simpler time when news did not consume them.

Journalism of Import

This has been a broad and fairly comprehensive introduction to the essence of journalism, and the most important aspects of the profession. You have had the opportunity to develop your aptitude in finding stories that are newsworthy, interviewing and note-taking, and identifying and manipulating the most common structures to the writing process. You have learned about the ethics and legalities that accompany the practice of journalism, and had a review of grammar for the writer.

Let us first consider the art of depth writing. While most journalists may find themselves sticking only to hard-hitting news iterated in a few paragraphs, there may come a time that your editor calls on you to write something longer and more complex. You should have a basic idea of how this is done.

In-Depth Reporting

A journalist who sets out to do an in-depth report understands from the outset that it requires extensive research – turning to numerous databases and resources, and probably interviews, in order to collect the breadth of information that is needed to offer the reader a detailed account of a news story.

One of the most well-known examples of in-depth journalism occurred in the 1970s, when the seemingly innocuous break-in of a hotel room in Washington, D.C. eventually brought down the President of the United States after reporters uncorked the Watergate scandal. It is instructive to visit a library and sit down and review the actual newspapers as they appeared – available now on microfiche. It is more real to the student than reviewing it on the Internet, where it loses much of the urgency that accompanied the story in those days. In-depth reporting is synonymous with investigative reporting, and the purpose of that is to follow a story with the expectation of uncovering or exposing an individual, or event, (or both). Most often, the activity in question is illegal and the perpetrator is deliberately keeping the public in the dark.

In-depth stories tend to utilize a component called the nut graph -- also spelled nut graf. This is a journalism term that names a particular part of an depth story or news feature. It is generally the second paragraph of a long article – a sort of paragraph within a paragraph – that acts as an internal lead. It is called a nut graph because, like a nut, it contains the kernel or essential parts of the story. The word graph is an abbreviation of the word para graph. The purpose of the nut graph is to sum up the main idea of the story. Because investigative journalism is designed to be lengthy, the nut graph is added for the readers' sake – to give them the gist of the story at the outset.

Nut graphs can also contain other types of information. They might explain the timeliness of the story, its importance to the reader, and act as a transition from the lead to the heart of the matter. The challenge to the writer is the segment can be longer than a single paragraph, but not quite the length of two. How about an example?

Margie Madison walked out of her dorm building on Tuesday to find nothing but an empty lock hanging off the bike rack where her bike used to be. "Somebody stole my mini bike," she said.

Mini bikes are the newest target of campus thieves across the country. In Polk County alone there are an average of 75 mini bikes stolen each year, a number that continues to spiral upward.

The mini bike industry does big business with the college crowd. Many cannot afford to purchase a vehicle, and this motorized bicycle is more trend-setting than the typical bike.

The writer then goes on to discuss aspects of the minibike industry,

And how they are all the rage of college campuses today, and

Theft rings that target them. The story might even talk about local related

Crime figures and criminals.

Depth Reporting…continued

In depth reporting, the story needs to be developed to a much greater extent; the depth reporter must rely on research, organization, and good writing. If you are going to write an in-depth story, you must be sure to allot the proper amount of time necessary to research and investigate, write, and edit. There is no question that depth reporting consumes more time, effort, energy, and thought. It can be compared to writing a 10-page paper for a midterm.

Therefore, the depth reporter must be given the proper amount of time to research and collect information on the subject. In-depth stories also come with deadlines, and the writer must learn to budget his or her time, so they are not investigating or writing the story at the last minute. The concepts to be included in the story should be developed early in the process, not at the end. This is necessary to ensure the article has the proper structure and direction intended.

While the journalist who undertakes the challenge of writing in-depth articles may have gotten the idea for their story from something they'd read, heard, or seen that piqued their interest, the writer must always be mindful of the need to write to the interest or needs of the audience, and not themselves. As with every type of writing, the story should be about people, or how something is affecting people. Interviews and dialogue help to break up long pieces that might otherwise be rather dry to read after a few paragraphs.

In-depth writing mirrors the needs of online or Internet writing, in that too much print without any breaks can turn your reader off. An in-depth story begs to have graphs, charts, images, and the like included.

Still another interesting aspect of the in-depth story is that the writer has several options. First, we know that it does not have to be of the breaking news standard required by hard-hitting news. But it can be a spin-off of a recent story, examining it from a different point of view. Also, readers enjoy reading, and in-depth story writers tend to enjoy writing, articles that can appear in series format where they are broken into parts over the course of several days. It can also be run as a single story, as well, giving in-depth reporting more versatility than other types.

Investigative stories are the hallmark of in-depth journalism. But there are other types, as well. For example, social, political, behavioral and other trends are great topics for depth writing. A depth story might also be an analytical piece that breaks down a large topic into smaller bits for a closer examination. In-depth stories can be interpretive, as well, providing readers with a purported meaning of one thing or another.

If you are going to enter the field of journalism, you may not overtly choose to specialize in the art of in-depth writing – but do not be surprised if it is expected from you now and again. It is a good idea to practice this type of specialty writing on your own time, so you can gain some expertise before your editor foists one on you! The last thing you want to do is say, "But I have never done an in-depth story before." That is not the mark of a good journalist!

Now, what does that phrase mean, and why did we save it until the very end?

It means you are entering a profession that can influence and alter the course of people's lives. Journalists venture into all areas of interest to the public: science, art, politics, business, even the media, itself. Their goal is to keep the public informed, because an informed public is less likely to be taken advantage of, or controlled. In a democracy such as ours, a free and open media is all that stands between individual rights and tyranny. The news is generally not pleasant, and is designed to reveal an underbelly of society that is not something we are able to take pride in.

For example, the continued reporting of the unfair number of black men who are victims of police harassment and violence. No American likes to hear this. We like to believe that our police forces are fair and honest. But, in case they aren't, who is going to reveal this? The average person rarely has the time to investigate problems of this nature – they are engaged in their own lives. But that is not to say we don't want to know about it – or that we don't care and want things to change. That is what the purpose of the journalist is – to reveal social, political, and other problems as a precursor to public engagement and change. Journalism is honorable work, and a satisfying pursuit, as well.

The journalist is the watchdog of every group. We have priests who abuse children, charities that steal money, teachers that have sex with students, and government officials who work for their own interests, instead of their constituents. And these are supposed to be the good guys!

As in no other profession, the first obligation of a journalist is to the truth. His or her first loyalty should be to the citizens, and their aim should always be to verify information before it is printed. There are few things harder to erase than damage to an individual's reputation due to sloppy and inaccurate reporting. Journalists must not get cozy with the people they are reporting about, or engage in the events they are researching. For instance, you can't be an addicted gambler and write about the ills of gambling in your community. Journalists instigate public commentary, criticism, and compromise. Journalists should not substitute their opinions and judgments for an unbiased representation of the truth.

Here, the lesson will pause long enough to acknowledge that this does happen in journalism, nonetheless. There are times that a news medium or journalist claims to be fair and balanced and is anything but. It is fortunate that there are so many outlets for news these days that people have an opportunity to hear more than one side of a story.

The point is, you are bound by your own ethics, your own obligation, to present the truth – or at least all sides of a story so the reader can draw their own conclusions. Journalism is not writing for an English class. It is not writing for entertainment – even if it is entertainment news. It is writing to inform, first and foremost, and that is followed by providing the reader with an interpretation of events – clearly marked as such – and acting as an agent of change.

Yes, the journalist brings stories of import to the public. It may be that the world would never know a fact, if you had not taken the time to pursue it and share it with them. You serve the public, you influence for good, you are interested in the world around you – with a keen mind, an able pen, a facility for language and the determination not to be swayed from your goal.

Now, there is really nothing left we can teach you about being a journalist.

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Journalism - List of Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Journalism is the activity or profession of reporting about, photographing, or editing news stories for newspapers, magazines, radio, television, or online platforms. Essays on journalism could explore its history, ethical standards, and the evolving landscape in the digital age. Discussions might delve into the roles and responsibilities of journalists, the challenges posed by political biases, censorship, and the rapid spread of misinformation. Moreover, analyzing the impact of social media on journalism, the future of investigative journalism, and the interaction between journalism and democracy can provide a nuanced understanding of the vital role journalism plays in a functioning society. A vast selection of complimentary essay illustrations pertaining to Journalism you can find at Papersowl. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

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The Role of Watchdog Journalism

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The Yellow Kid and the Birth of Yellow Journalism

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Journalism continues to evolve at the same rate as the country's interpretations of the First Amendment. Because of the continual advances in technology around the world, society must question the state of journalism, and whether or not its older principles are still applicable to modern standards. As Stephen J.A. Ward highlights in his article Digital Media Ethics: "Most of the principles were developed over the past century, originating in the construction of professional, objective ethics for mass commercial newspapers in […]

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Journalism, often deemed the "fourth estate," is expected to be a watchdog of society, upholding standards of truth, objectivity, and accountability. However, when its very foundations are shaken by controversies like the Jayson Blair scandal, it forces the world to re-examine the integrity of the news we consume and the institutions that deliver it. Jayson Blair, a young and promising journalist, made headlines in 2003, not for his exemplary reporting but for the elaborate web of deception he spun while […]

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Journalists hold an indispensable role in society, tasked with the formidable responsibility of shedding light on events and issues of public interest. Their work is critical to the functioning of a democratic society, as citizens rely on them for timely, accurate, and comprehensive news. However, this noble profession is fraught with inherent dangers, particularly when journalists venture into controversial territories. Such stories often involve powerful individuals or organizations intent on safeguarding their interests at any cost. In these scenarios, journalists […]

Journalism in the Digital Age: the Rise of Online Newspapers in Nigeria

Nigeria has experienced a notable paradigm shift in the domain of journalism and media in recent times, primarily attributed to the proliferation of online newspapers. The transition from conventional print media to digital platforms has brought about a significant transformation in both the consumption and distribution of news. This essay delves into the progression of online newspapers in Nigeria, examining their ramifications on journalism, society, and politics, in addition to the obstacles and prospects they introduce. The proliferation of online […]

Ethics in Public Relations and Journalism: the Imperative for Truth-Telling

Ethical Shifts in Journalism Journalists are known in movies and media as vigorous, committed watchdogs of the press, trying to get hard-hitting stories to spread to their community, whether it’d be for a rural town in Ohio or the Big Apple of New York. With that being said, journalism has taken an ethical turn in the past couple of decades. From leaking unclassified government documents to networks spreading half-truths and one-liners for citizen attention, the Media has taken a toll, […]

The Post: Question of Shyness, Journalism Ethics, and Gender Bias

The movie The Post gives a unique perspective on the background and journalism process. It takes viewers inside the story of upholding the nation’s civil liberties. Katharine Graham, publisher of The Washington Post, and editor Ben Bradlee join forces to expose a decades-long cover-up. Although this may ruin their career and change the face of journalism, they pull through and bring the truth to light. Throughout the movie, many important concepts about the process of journalism appear. The lessons include […]

Photography and the Transformation of War Perception

Long before the invention of the camera, warfare was largely romanticized, and those who participated in it were seen as heroes. Battles were often depicted through the lens of glory and honor, with war itself perceived as the ultimate test of manhood and a pathway to proving oneself. Even in America, the soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War were celebrated, praised by a public that remained largely ignorant of the grim realities of conflict. However, the invention of the […]

The Impact of Social Media on Modern Journalism

Since leaving Chapman University, I have held three different positions in the field of journalism. I have worked as a Production Assistant for Dateline News, as a writer for the local CBS News Station in Los Angeles, and currently as a Broadcast Associate for 48 Hours. Despite the varied job requirements for each of these positions and broadcasts, they all share one common thread: the dominance of social media as a tool to deliver news and information to hundreds of […]

The Plight of Homeless Veterans

Introduction The early morning dew glistens on the grass as the world remains hushed and still, a seemingly perfect silence enveloping everything. Yet within this tranquil scene, a solitary figure trudges along the street, pushing a cart filled with worn clothes and empty boxes. This man, once a decorated officer in the U.S. Navy, now exists on the fringes of society as a homeless individual. His story, though unique, represents a larger narrative experienced by countless veterans who have slipped […]

The Evolution and Impact of Fake News

Following the 2016 United States presidential elections, 'fake news' emerged as a powerful phenomenon, particularly dominating social media platforms.However, its roots trace back much further, reflecting a long-standing tradition of sensational and exploitative journalism practices known as yellow journalism, which emerged in the late 19th century. Claire Fallon of the Huffington Post notes that before "fake news" became the catchphrase it is today, English speakers referred to it as "false news." This terminology shift signals not only a change in […]

Visual Rhetoric in Advertising

Advertising is everywhere these days. It shapes how we think, what we buy, and even our views on politics. A big part of its power comes from visual rhetoric, which is just a fancy way of saying using pictures, colors, and designs to send messages and convince us of things. Unlike words, which make us think logically, visuals hit us faster and often without us even noticing. This essay digs into how ads use visuals to change how we see […]

The Complex Landscape of Media Bias in the Washington Post

In the bustling world of journalism, The Washington Post stands as a towering institution, its pages a canvas where daily events, political machinations, and societal shifts are painted with words. Yet, like any publication of significant influence, it is not immune to the pervasive specter of media bias. The complex nature of this bias within The Washington Post offers a fascinating glimpse into the subtleties of modern journalism and the intricate balance between objective reporting and editorial slant. At the […]

Understanding Satire in Literature: a Definition and Exploration

Satire in literature is like a sharp, clever tool that writers use to poke fun at the silly, stupid, and downright wrong things in people, groups, and society. Unlike straight-up criticism, satire mixes wit, irony, and exaggeration to make us laugh—and think. This kind of writing has been around forever, acting like a mirror that reflects how we act and what we believe. At its heart, satire wants to tickle your funny bone while also making you stop and go, […]

The Sensational World of Yellow Journalism: its Origins and Impact

A big portion of media history has been shaped by yellow journalism, a term that conjures up thoughts of dramatic headlines, gory stories, and dubious ethics. This sensationalist, scandal-mongering, and exaggerated journalism style first appeared in the late 19th century and is still present in the media today. Investigating yellow journalism's history, analyzing its practices, and weighing its long-term consequences on public opinion and journalistic ethics are all necessary to comprehend this form of reporting. In the 1890s, the term […]

The Role and Impact of Muckraking in Journalism

Muckraking a term cooked up back in the early 1900s is all about digging deep into society's dirt to expose corruption scandals and unfairness. It was a big deal during the Progressive Era in the United States when it really shook things up in social political and economic circles. President Theodore Roosevelt even called these reporters "Man with the Muck-rake" likening them to a character from John Bunyan's "Pilgrim's Progress" who was more interested in society's mess than its good […]

The Kodak Revolution: Transforming Photography Forever

The introduction of the Kodak camera in 1888 by George Eastman marked a pivotal moment in the history of photography. Eastman, a visionary inventor and entrepreneur, revolutionized the way people captured images by significantly simplifying the process. Prior to the Kodak camera, photography was an arduous task that required extensive equipment and specialized skills, limiting its accessibility to professionals. Eastman's innovation democratized photography, making it accessible to the masses and forever altering both the art form and its role in […]

The Dynamics of Tabloid Journalism: Shaping Public Perception

Tabloid journalism epitomized by outlets such as the National Enquirer wields a distinct influence on public opinion through its captivating storytelling methods. Unlike traditional news sources tabloids thrive on sensationalism and celebrity intrigue catering to an audience fascinated by the personal lives of public figures. The National Enquirer and similar publications have perfected the art of capturing readers' attention with attention-grabbing headlines and scandalous narratives. By focusing on the private lives of celebrities these tabloids craft compelling stories that not […]

Sensationalism in Journalism

The phrase "yellow journalism" refers to a style of reporting that emerged in the late 1800s, characterized by its focus on sensationalism over factual accuracy. This approach to journalism was defined by its flashy headlines, exaggerated stories, and dramatic imagery, all designed to capture the public's attention and boost newspaper sales. The concept took root during a heated competition between two media moguls: Joseph Pulitzer of the New York World and William Randolph Hearst of the New York Journal. These […]

The Role of the Springfield Republican in Shaping Public Opinion

The Springfield Republican, a newspaper with a distinguished history, has long been a pillar of journalism in Western Massachusetts. Founded in 1824, it has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and informing the residents of Springfield and its neighboring areas. Throughout its history, the newspaper has consistently upheld journalistic integrity and community involvement, weathering numerous challenges and transformations in the media landscape. From its inception, the Springfield Republican was renowned for its independent stance and dedication to unbiased […]

The Dynamic Landscape of Nigerian Newspapers: Catalysts for Democratic Discourse

The history of Nigerian newspapers is intertwined with the nation's journey towards independence and its subsequent democratic evolution. Emerging in the 19th century with pioneers like "Iwe Irohin," these publications have evolved into vital pillars of Nigerian society, reflecting its diverse cultures and political dynamics. Today, Nigerian newspapers continue to shape public opinion, hold power accountable, and foster national dialogue amidst a rapidly changing media landscape. During Nigeria's colonial era, newspapers emerged as platforms for intellectual discourse and resistance against […]

Muckraking Mavericks: Champions of Investigative Reporting

In the early 20th century, a cadre of bold journalists emerged in the United States, wielding their pens as weapons against societal injustices. These intrepid reporters, known as muckrakers, sought to uncover the hidden truths of American life, catalyzing reform and shaping public opinion in profound ways. Upton Sinclair stands tall among these muckraking pioneers, renowned for his groundbreaking work "The Jungle" (1906), which exposed the deplorable conditions within Chicago's meatpacking industry. Sinclair's vivid portrayal of sanitation issues and worker […]

The Power of Sensationalism: Yellow Journalism and its Modern Echoes

In the late 19th century, the bustling streets of New York City witnessed the birth of a controversial yet captivating phenomenon: yellow journalism. This style of newspaper reporting, characterized by sensationalism and eye-catching headlines, marked a significant shift in the landscape of media and public perception. Originating from the fierce rivalry between Joseph Pulitzer's New York World and William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal, yellow journalism employed exaggeration, scandal, and drama to captivate readers and boost newspaper sales. While its […]

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Essay On Journalism

Introduction: ‘Journalism’ means the works of a journalist regarding news, views, reports, etc. It is apparent writing on any issue of an affair. The word journalism was originally applied to the reportage of current events in printed form, specifically newspapers, but with the advent of radio, television, and the Internet in the 20th century the use of the term broadened to include all printed and electronic communication dealing with current affairs.

Concepts of the appropriate role for journalism vary between countries. In some nations, the news media are controlled by government intervention and are not fully independent. In others, the news media are independent of the government but instead operate as private industry motivated by profit. In addition to the varying nature of how media organizations are run and funded, countries may have differing implementations of laws handling the freedom of speech and libel cases.

History and Professionalism of Journalism: While publications reporting the news to the general public in a standardized fashion only began to appear in the 17th century and later, governments as early as the Han dynasty China made use of regularly published news bulletins. Similar publications were established in the Republic of Venice in the 16th century. These bulletins, however, were intended only for government officials, and thus were not journalistic news publications in the modern sense of the term. England took the publication of newspapers towards the end of the 16th century. The daily newspaper sponsored by Defoe appeared at the beginning of the 18th century.

The modern newspapers really developed with the invention of the telegraph which made the possible swift transmission of news across the world. Reuter, the famous News Agency, started the work first. There are several forms of journalism with diverse audiences. Thus, journalism is said to serve the role of a “fourth estate”, acting as a watchdog on the workings of the government. A single publication (such as a newspaper) contains many forms of journalism, each of which may be presented in different formats. Each section of a newspaper, magazine, or website may cater to a different audience.

Journalism in the 20th century was marked by a growing sense of professionalism. There were four important factors in this trend:

(1) the increasing organization of working journalists,

(2) specialized education for journalism,

(3) a growing literature dealing with the history, problems, and techniques of mass communication, and

(4) an increasing sense of social responsibility on the part of journalists.

By the late 20th century, studies showed that journalists as a group were generally idealistic about their role in bringing the facts to the public in an impartial manner. Various societies of journalists issued statements of ethics, of which that of the American Society of Newspaper Editors is perhaps best known.

Functions of Journalism: A modern newspaper is something very much more than a mere purveyor of the news; it is also a store-house of current information, an instrument of public criticism, a creator of public opinion. It is, indeed, a potpourri (admixture) of many things in a variety box. It has, therefore, to be served by a large and varied staff. There are the editor and his assistants who write leading articles and editorial comments and edit news.

Their influence on forming a public opinion is very great. They may be said to do political thoughts on behalf of the man in the street. Then there is the news-editor and his staff. They receive news from different agencies, staff reporters and correspondents. They edit, arrange, and display them. They can flash a headline and create a sensation. The staff-reporters interview people elicit views by “scooping” news in advance.

A modern newspaper must also have on its staff competent artists, cartoonists, photographers, etc. There must be advertisement managers and circulation managers. All these people who are on the staff of a newspaper are known by the general name of journalists, or newspapermen.

Codes of Ethics in Journalism: There are over 242 codes of ethics in journalism that vary across various regions of the world. The codes of ethics are created through an interaction of different groups of people such as the public and journalists themselves. Most of the codes of ethics serve as a representation of the economic and political beliefs of the society where the code was written. Despite the fact that there are a variety of codes of ethics, some of the core elements present in all codes are: remaining objective, providing the truth, and being honest.

Journalism does not have a universal code of conduct; individuals are not legally obliged to follow a certain set of rules like a doctor or a lawyer does. There have been discussions for creating a universal code of conduct in journalism. One suggestion centers on having three claims for credibility, justifiable consequence, and the claim of humanity.

The Role of Journalist: Journalism has improved much of its methods with the passage of years. “It is no longer ponderous instructive, formal. “A good journalist creates his own peculiar style. He knows the art of creating the taste and demand for what he offers. One aspires to literary excellence; another sets greater store by propaganda.

The reader is drawn to the style which is attractive to himself. So it comes about that every journal has its own set of readers. That is why a daily paper and the particular columnists are so much in demand. Too much of the opinion station has, however, to be avoided.

Present-Day Journalism: Although the core of journalism has always been the news, the latter word has acquired so many secondary meanings that the term “hard news” gained currency to distinguish items of definite news value from others of marginal significance. This was largely a consequence of the advent of radio and television reporting, which brought news bulletins to the public with a speed that the press could not hope to match. To hold their audience, newspapers provided increasing quantities of interpretive material articles on the background of the news, personality sketches, and columns of timely comments by writers skilled in presenting an opinion in a readable form.

Modern journalism is organized on a commercial scale. There are international news agencies which collect and broadcast news all over the world. Wealthy and influential newspapers always maintain their own correspondents, home and abroad. The modern world could not exist without such an elaborate organization and agency of information gathered from various sources.

Conclusion: Journalism has many competitors today. Chief of all is the radio and the televisions which not only broadcast and televises but have the added advantages of arranging talks of prominent leaders of the society and establish visual contact with them. But they cannot supersede the newspaper. Remaining glued to Radio or TV at a precise time is not always possible.

Besides, coverage of news by the radio and TV is limited; items must be cut down to the minimum so that the time-limit is not exceeded. But a newspaper can be read at any time, suiting one’s convenience. Its coverage is very wide, and its scope for improvement is unlimited. But the journalist should guard against the present tendency for trivializing and fragmenting news items, imposing the editor’s opinions upon readers.

Information Source:

• ontaheen.com
• britannica.com

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