Bloggers and Journalists: Together or Just a Fling?

Steve Outing of the Poynter institute published two articles in 2004 that discuss what journalists and bloggers can learn from each other. The unfortunate thing is, neither have bothered to listen.

Outing points out, in “What Journalists Can Learn From Bloggers,” that bloggers are working quickly to establish rules and etiquette for their postings. But, he simultaneously mentions in his parallel article, “What Bloggers Can Learn From Journalists,” that bloggers have no editor, no watchdog. So, it begs the question, if there is no one watching over bloggers, forcing them to adhere to this code they are supposedly constructing, whose to say they will abide by it? Nobody. Outing explains, “With blogging, it's up to the individual blogger. With no institution or organization watching over them and guiding their behavior, we can only hope that most bloggers adhere to a mission of accuracy and accountability.”

Usually, bloggers don’t do their own reporting. Instead, they will comment on the works of other journalists. If the blogger cites his source, then the information is more credible, but often times they don’t. Instead, they write the news more transparently, posting opinions or hunches. Outing mentions the case of Wonkette, Ana Marie Cox’s blog, which announced the victory of John Kerry before the end of the 2004 election. Obviously, this was incorrect. While, bloggers may occasionally print incorrect information, Outing says this is OK, as long as the writer is transparent about where the information came from. Bloggers, unlike journalists, are permitted to print unfounded views. To retain credibility though, it is crucial that they open up to their audience and explain that the information on their blog may or may not be legitimate.

But, don’t fret, bloggers. Outing did have some good things to say about weblogs. Whereas newspapers research, write and print the news, blogs are not so final. After a posting, readers can comment, correct and engage the writer. Blogs allow for a conversation. Often this is a space left out of most community newspapers, where discussion of issues would be crucial.

In addition, blogs permit the personality of the writer to come through the writing. It resonates with the reader more deeply than a stuffy newspaper column where personal opinions are hidden.

I am interested to watch the future of journalism and blogs collide, as I believe they will. They can’t mix entirely, though. No matter what happens, strong reporters and journalists will still be needed for newspapers and magazines. At the same time, readers will still be interested in reading the ramblings of bloggers throughout the Internet. Perhaps the future will unveil a place for bloggers and journalists to coexist.

Peacefully.


Links to Poynter Institute Articles:

What Bloggers Can Learn From Journalists


What Journalists Can Learn From Bloggers