2013, Books, Journalism, Non-Fiction, Society

Informing the News (2013) by Thomas E. Patterson

This book was written to make the case for “knowledge-based” journalism. It was sponsored by an initiative that is trying to establish that kind of journalism. The author believes strongly in the cause and has been a crucial part of the initiative that sponsored his work here.

But despite the fact that this is very much a work of advocacy, it is a compelling and informative read, touching on the history of American journalism (print, radio, TV and internet) as it explores the issues that have arisen with the rise of “Infotainment” and “Citizen journalism.” Though I question the methodologies of some of the studies cited, and I am not as optimistic as the author, I think he makes a good case for a journalism revival through better education of journalists.

I will say he loves Walter Lippman way too much, and the complete American focus of the book is also a bit of a downside for a reader like me who isn’t living in the US.

7/10

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