Hallmarks of twenty-first century technology like blogs and social networking sites, known collectively as “Web 2.0,” have placed the once-exclusive tools of journalism into the hands of the many, CBC News reported Oct. 16.
With the ability to post text, photos and videos online for an ever-growing audience at no cost comes the concern that the public will view these sources as reference points from which to gather information, rather than reserving their regard for traditional journalists.
In the age of interactive media, online communities are easy to form and journalists’ monopoly of a professional industry could be under siege.
It’s unlikely the growth of Web 2.0 will challenge the relevance of traditional journalism. With countless newspapers produced globally, the profession isn’t in danger of becoming obsolete.
Mainstream media’s importance doesn’t have to erode as the blog revolution moves forward.
Traditional mainstream journalists and independent bloggers shouldn’t be held at odds. Both can compliment each other as important news vehicles that occupy different niches.
Newspapers use both forms effectively on their websites when posting a writer’s official reporting as well as his blog, offering opinions and new angles.
It’s elitist to think bloggers have nothing meaningful to say compared to mainstream media. While hired journalists are held to a higher standard of accountability, blogs are still a valuable method of communicating important ideas—as long as they aren’t taken as the objective truth.
Working journalists have access to more training, information and resources than independent bloggers, and are understandably held to a higher standard than those who aren’t paid to write.
To be most effective, bloggers should master some of the same skills required of journalists in the mainstream media, like tasteful and articulate writing.
Web 2.0 has enabled the everyman to have a public voice. New media’s more interactive side has a positive impact freedom of expression. If used effectively, it can effect important change and shouldn’t be undervalued.
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