Journalism

A public service that is relevant, current, impactful, truthful, and investigative, enabling people to make informed decisions.

Technological determinism

The belief that changes in technology change society alone, contrasting with the idea that journalism is influenced by community and culture.

Surveillance

A journalistic function that ensures accountability and serves as a check against those in power.

Cultural transmission

The process of conveying cultural ideals through various forms of media.

News desert

A community with no access to local news or information.

Sensationalism

A style of reporting that emphasizes shocking or exciting information at the expense of accuracy.

Framing the news

Deciding how a news story will be presented, including the angle and emphasis.

Ethical journalism

The practice of journalism that adheres to principles of truth, accuracy, fairness, and accountability.

Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics

Guidelines that mandate journalists to seek truth, minimize harm, act independently, and be accountable.

Lippmanian solution

The concept that elite journalism is produced by and for elites, potentially disconnecting it from the general public.

First Amendment

The part of the U.S. Constitution that protects freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition.

Negative liberties

Rights that protect individuals from government intervention, especially in free speech.

Positive liberties

Rights that promote a healthy speech environment and ensure diverse voices are heard.

Prior restraint

A government's prohibition on speech or publication before it occurs.

Libel

Defamation that is published, requiring public figures to prove actual malice.

Symbolic speech

Actions that express ideas or opinions, such as kneeling during the national anthem.

Bradenburg Standard

A legal standard that protects speech that incites violence only if it is aimed at inciting imminent lawless action.

Public interest journalism

Journalism that prioritizes community needs and serves the public good rather than solely chasing profits.

Objectivity

The journalistic ideal of presenting news in a fair, impartial, and balanced way.

Misinformation

False or misleading information spread regardless of intent to deceive.

Audience engagement

The process of actively involving the audience in the journalism process, encouraging feedback and participation.

Cultural diversity in journalism

The representation of various cultural perspectives in media, exemplified by historic publications like the Cherokee Phoenix.

Ethics of care

A framework that emphasizes compassion and empathy in reporting, particularly towards vulnerable populations.

Funding challenges in journalism

Issues faced by news organizations related to financial sustainability, audience engagement, and diverse outreach.

Collaborative journalism

A modern approach to journalism that emphasizes partnerships and collaboration with various stakeholders, including the community.

AI in journalism

The use of artificial intelligence to assist in journalistic tasks, presenting both opportunities for efficiency and ethical challenges.

The Pulitzer/Hearst battles

Historical competition highlighting sensationalism driven by the business model of the penny press.

Ethical principles in journalism

Core values that guide the responsibilities and practices of journalists, ensuring their work serves the public interest.