Bloggers, reporters and journalists…oh my!
April 28th, 2008By Maya Lunnemann
A recent conversation with my mother-in-law had me thinking about the way journalism has evolved over the past few years. Are those who are in the social media world (i.e. bloggers, online news gatherers, etc.) changing the role and definition of “journalist?”
According to Wikipedia, a journalist is “a person who practises journalism, the gathering and dissemination of information about current events, trends, issues and people.” It goes on to identify journalists as reporters and columnists, as well as editors and visual journalists (photographers, graphic artists and page designers).
The entry does acknowledge modern media and “citizen journalists” who offer grassroots, non-corporate coverage. The consensus through a quick survey on Twitter (thanks, Susan!) indicates that many people prefer the term “citizen journalist.” However, some argue that “citizen journalists” can’t be called journalists, because they aren’t held to the standards and norms found in the Society of Professional Journalists ethical code.
But consider the recent earthquakes around Illinois and Missouri. I’ve heard rumblings around the office that the earthquake was first reported on Twitter - they beat the radio stations, TV crews and newspapers.
So, what do you call these modern news-gatherers? Are they journalists? What about conversation-starters? Or perhaps you like the term citizen reporters?
Talk amongst yourselves…
April 28th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
I’m partial to citizen journalist, personally. Although I recognize when I’m wearing those shoes, and those of just a blogger. It’s different, to be sure, and I’ve done both. It’s possible that paychecks make the difference. If you’re earning income as a journalist, the “citizen” is not part of it. If you’re sharing news as your civic duty, then it is.
April 29th, 2008 at 7:32 am
Mj - it does seem that those in the online realm like the term citizen journalist. I’d be curious to hear from traditional journalists on what term they prefer. And I wonder if we’ll ever come to a consensus on one term.
April 30th, 2008 at 8:24 am
Just my two-cents: Even though bloggers aren’t held to the journalists code by others or a professional organization, I would argue that many hold themselves to it. Many bloggers that are worth their weight are anxious about getting it right, and care enough about their readers to make sure they do if they are writing about news related stories.