WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH "THE PRESS?"

Bob Giles knows a thing or two about the media. He’s worked for newspapers for over more than 50 years, he’s a two-time Pulitzer prize-winning editor, and was the curator for the Neiman Foundation, a prestigious position in the world of professional journalism.

 

Bob is also optimistic about the future of newspapers, including our very own Traverse City Record-Eagle. He says news—the balanced, accurate and fair reporting of the facts—is essential for our democracy.

 

He shared five observations about the changes in the press and media:

 

1) Wealthy new owners are investing in news organizations and enabling innovations that will ensure their survival. The new owners are allowing agencies to invest in new tools and innovations to gain readers.

 

2) Upending the news industry. News organizations are expanding their reach and building new platforms through digital platforms. 55% of New York Times readers use a mobile device to read the paper.

 

3) Facts matter. New fact-checking organizations have emerged to ensure that the public gets the facts.

 

4) We’re in a new era of truth-telling. Journalists will now often make it clear when one point-of-view on an issue is weak or if there is a lack of clear evidence on side of an argument.

 

5) Courts are beginning to reconsider the balance between private rights and first amendment freedom of the press. Questions arise on whether or not public officials should be protected from exposure. Courts must make the decision, but individuals are winning.