Introduction
Imagine a world without news. Just think about not being able to find out what’s going on in your city, your country, or even the world. No updates on government decisions, societal issues, or the everyday stories of regular folks. It would be a world that’s harder to understand, less transparent, and definitely not a better place.
Journalism goes beyond simply reporting facts. It’s a field that demands unique skills, knowledge, and, above all, a sense of responsibility. Journalists gather information from different sources, meticulously verify its accuracy, and provide the public with an unbiased view of events. They tackle tough questions, uncover corruption, and share crucial stories that might otherwise slip under the radar.
What exactly is journalism, and why is it important?
Scroll through this presentation and find the answers to the questions: what is journalism, and which human needs does this profession fulfil?
M4-U1-L1-B EN Journalismus by Vitaut
Which of these needs are the most important to you? Don’t hesitate to add to the list above!
Journalism and blogging: is there a distinction?
Journalism and blogging: is there a distinction?
You might come across the idea that bloggers could take the place of journalists. Sure, blogs can be engaging and full of information.
But, unlike professional journalists, bloggers often rely on their personal views, may not have the chance to thoroughly verify facts, and don’t carry the same legal and ethical responsibilities for what they publish.
Here’s a look at how journalistic materials differ from advertising and propaganda materials
- From advertising materials
- Purpose: Journalism aims to inform and analyse. Advertising, on the other hand, focuses on promoting goods, services, or ideas.
- Objectivity: Journalistic writing aims for objectivity. On the other hand, advertising writing is inherently subjective and showcases a product or service in a positive way.
- From propaganda materials
- Purpose: Journalism aims to inform and foster understanding. On the other hand, propaganda seeks to sway an audience toward a specific viewpoint, frequently using manipulative tactics and twisting the truth.
- Objectivity and reliability: Journalism aims for objectivity and reliability. Propaganda frequently overlooks facts or presents them in a selective manner to meet its objectives.
- Multiple Opinions: Journalism usually showcases various perspectives on a topic. In contrast, propaganda tends to push a single, “correct” viewpoint while silencing others.
Important! Real journalism plays a crucial role in keeping the public in check, which is essential for democracy and justice. It keeps us informed, helps us make smart choices, and encourages us to engage in our communities. That’s why a world without robust, independent journalism would be a much darker place.
Now let's practise identifying journalistic material from blog posts, advertising and propaganda!
Now let’s practise identifying journalistic material from blog posts, advertising and propaganda!
Is this journalism or not?
Read the texts and identify them!
Determine which of these texts are:
- journalistic
- blogging
- advertising
- propaganda
First make a decision, then click on the answer link, read the correct answer and compare it with your decision.
Text 1
Guys, yesterday was crazy! I was driving through the city centre when suddenly BAM! An accident! Two cars were wrecked and one guy was taken to hospital. Well, you know how I drive, carefully, unlike some people. Honestly, these drivers are so annoying, always rushing somewhere. I hope they punish the person who caused it! What do you think about it? Write in the comments!
Check the correct answer – click here!Why is this a blog post?Emotional and subjective style (crazy, annoying).
● Lots of personal assessments and opinions.
● Lack of specifics and fact-checking.
● Focus on the author and their impressions.
● Call for interaction with the audience.
Text 2
Are you still wasting precious time commuting to work? Do you dream of freedom of movement and comfort? Then the new Ford EcoSport is the perfect solution for you! This stylish and economical car will allow you to forget about traffic jams and enjoy every minute behind the wheel. Hurry up and take advantage of this great offer and purchase a Ford EcoSport at our dealership with an incredible discount! Limited number of cars available!
Check the correct answer – click here!Why is this advertising text?● The goal is to sell a product (a car).
● It uses attractive epithets (‘stylish,’ ‘economical,’ ‘great deal’).
● The emphasis is on the product's advantages and benefits for the buyer.
● There is no objective information about the product's disadvantages.
● There is a call to action (‘buy’).
.
Text 3
On 20 August, an incident occurred in the city centre. According to eyewitnesses, at around 8 p.m., two cars collided at the intersection of Central and Eastern Streets. One person, the driver of a Ford car, was injured in the accident. Paramedics arrived at the scene, provided first aid, and transported the victim to the nearest hospital.
The circumstances of the accident are being investigated. Police representatives said that an investigation is underway and that those responsible will be identified once it is complete. Traffic on this section of the road was disrupted for two hours
Check the correct answer – click here!Why is this a journalistic text?● It contains specific facts (time, place, participants).
● It presents information from different perspectives (eyewitnesses, police).
● It strives to be objective, avoiding value judgements.
● It indicates the source of information (police representatives).
Text 4
Our great party always cares about the welfare of the people! While the opposition does nothing but criticise and spread lies, we are building new schools, hospitals and roads. It is only thanks to our wise policies that the country is prospering and the standard of living is steadily rising. We will not let our enemies knock us off the right path! Vote for our party – for a stable and bright future!
Check the correct answer – click here!Why is this propaganda?● The goal is to promote a certain political force and discredit opponents.
● It uses emotionally charged words (‘great,’ ‘wise,’ ‘enemies’).
● It presents information in a one-sided manner, ignoring or distorting facts.
It emphasises the ‘us versus them’ dichotomy.
● It calls for action (to vote) with the aim of mobilising support.
Summary
Now that you know more about journalism, test your knowledge: fill in the missing words in this paragraph!
