Investigative journalism is extremely interesting, in that
it seems to be the noblest of endeavours, (depending on what it investigates). This type of journalism is critical and thorough, as the journalist
actively participates in gaining and of course investigating the information. Rather
than simply sitting in the office, making phone calls and researching on the internet,
an investigative journalist must go out, chase people up, consult sources and
witness events first hand. It is all about thorough and accurate exploration of
an issue. For effective investigation, conducting interviews, taking observations,
going through documents and briefings must be done.
Basically, the internet – wikepedia and google did not
always exist so they are by no means completely necessary to creating a good
story.
There are several roles that investigative journalists aim
to fulfil;
Custodians of
conscience – the journalist exposes ‘civic vice’ for society to respond to
in any way they wish.
Provide a voice for
those without one and to hold the powerful to account – this is about
social justice and bringing the responsible to account.
The fourth estate
– journalists balance the powers of government, representing the interests of
those without power. Other terms include the ‘fourth branch of government’, where journalists make sure
information concerning the functioning of democracy are given to the public,
and ‘watchdog’, where journalists
make public personalities and institutions accountable when their actions
impact public life.
Another name for investigative journalism is Shoe leather
journalism, a US term, whereby you wear out your shoe leather, travelling and
moving around and ‘actively investigating’. Scepticism and slight suspicions
are important, however cynicism can result in pessimism, and ultimately create
a lot of trouble. .
It seems that investigative journalism is somewhat the
opposite, yet at the same time, quite similar to agenda setting. By this, I
mean that the topics of investigative journalism can still be carefully
selected, the only difference being that they are thoroughly investigated. Threats
to investigative journalism, include PR and the selective use of facts. This can
mean that only topics of interest to the public are being investigated, rather
than the journalist verifying the facts in the public interest.
Great examples of investigative journalism are the Global
Mail, and Australian story (local investigative journalism).
No comments:
Post a Comment