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September 23, 2005
Journalism of Verification -- Kovach & Rosenstiel
Kovach and Rosenstiel demonstrate in Elements of Journalism that journalism is more than a non-fiction art form─it is a science. The scientific approach in journalism, they explain, involves five principles: “never add anything; never deceive; be transparent, be original; and exercise humility” (78).
The word ‘transparent’ is in vogue. People who discuss their short comings; their weaknesses are said to be transparent. Transparency in journalism also includes honesty but goes a step further. It includes virtue and credibility. In journalism, that means accrediting sources and quoting accurately. And as we have been reminded in class discussions, it requires the journalist to be not just transparent but invisible.
As also discussed in class, when the journalist becomes invisible, the reader decides for him or herself. That’s what our democracy is about. That’s what education is about. That’s what journalism is about.
I came into this class thinking I would experiment with another writing discipline. Journalism, I am learning, is much more than that.
Posted by NancyGregg at September 23, 2005 6:52 PM
Comments
Nancy, when we shift from workbooks and drafts to reading about cultural trends in journalism, we'll discuss the ideal of transparency as an alternative to objectivity, particularly as it's emerging in the blogosphere. More on that later.
But you're right -- a journalism class has to focus on ethics, character, and the common good.
Posted by: Dennis G. Jerz at September 24, 2005 2:00 AM
Nancy-I find those five principles are tough to incorporate. Being original without adding anything or deceiving the reader is an abstract concept, especially if you're used to creative writing.
Dr. Jerz-blogging seems to redefine some of the conventions of journalism. What I'm curious about is what aspect of the medium itself makes this shift. Could it be that because blogs are capable of instant publication without deadlines, the conventions of the news genre change?
-Or could it be the culture is different; therefore, the conventions are different?
Posted by: Evan at September 27, 2005 9:29 PM