The Troubles of Journalism: A Critical Look at What's Right and Wrong With the Press, Second Edition (LEA's Communication Series)

This third edition of a text for graduate and undergraduate students in journalism, media studies, and communication takes stock of the current news environment since the events of September 11th. In addition to discussing the changing role of the American journalist, this third edition examines the mergers of media giants, press credibility in the wake of reporter scandals, the expanding role of cable news channels, and the importance of the Internet for news. Hachten is affiliated with the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

This book looks at criticisms of the journalism profession and evaluates many of the changes in journalism—both positive and negative. In addition, it suggests what the many changes mean for this nation and indeed for the world at large, as American journalism—its methods and standards—has markedly influenced the way many millions overseas receive news and view their world. Based on author William Hachten's 50-year involvement with newspapers and journalism education, The Troubles of Journalism serves as a realistic examination of the profession, and is appropriate for upper-level undergraduate courses in journalism and media criticism.

Since the previous edition of The Troubles of Journalism, many significant challenges have occurred in the media: the events of September 11, the war on terrorism, mergers and consolidation of media ownership, new concerns about press credibility, the expanding and controversial role of cable news channels, the growing impact role of news and comment on the Internet, and continuing globalization and controversy over the role of American media in international communications. To do justice to these recent "troubles" of the news media, important additions and modifications have been made in every chapter of this Third Edition.

This book looks at criticisms of the journalism profession and evaluates many of the changes in journalism--both positive and negative. In addition, it suggests what the many changes mean for this nation and indeed for the world at large, as American journalism--its methods and standards--has markedly influenced the way many millions overseas receive news and view their world. Based on author William Hachten's 50-year involvement with newspapers and journalism education, The Troubles of Journalism serves as a realistic examination of the profession, and is appropriate for upper-level undergraduate courses in journalism and media criticism.

Since the previous edition of The Troubles of Journalism, many significant challenges have occurred in the media: the events of September 11, the war on terrorism, mergers and consolidation of media ownership, new concerns about press credibility, the expanding and controversial role of cable news channels, the growing impact role of news and comment on the Internet, and continuing globalization and controversy over the role of American media in international communications. To do justice to these recent "troubles" of the news media, important additions and modifications have been made in every chapter of this Third Edition. This update to The Troubles of Journalism continues the work of the first edition, focusing on both the strengths and the weaknesses of American journalism at a time of societal flux and economic change. Author William A. Hachten's analysis comes out of his own 50-year involvement with newspapers and journalism education. He evaluates the significant changes in the journalism industry and suggests what these changes may mean for the nation and for the world at large. All chapters have been updated for this edition, with additional emphasis on the press's role in covering air wars in Kosovo and Serbia, media ownership consolidations, news on the Internet, and other factors affecting the way news is gathered and reported. A new chapter examines the role of the press in the Clinton-Lewinsky scandal. At a time when the journalism profession is undergoing significant change and criticism, this critique offers valuable insights for current and future journalists. In presenting American journalism in its international, historical, legal, and economic contexts, Hachten provides the basis for understanding why journalism today is the way it is and sets a course for its future direction. Taking stock of the current news environment, author William A. Hachten provides this thorough update to his insider's examination of the U.S. journalism profession. He considers the critiques of journalism and evaluates the changes taking place that have resulted in both positive and negative outcomes. This third edition will be a valuable and current resource for graduate and undergraduate students alike in the fields of journalism, media studies, and communication. The critical view provided here will improve the media literacy of students as well as anyone considering how U.S. media changes in response to changes on the national, international, and global levels Best news media in the world? Global impact of American media Freedom of the press: theory and values Recent history of the press Bigger, fewer, and more like-minded News on the air: a sense of decline The fading American newspaper? Why the public mistrusts the media The Clinton scandal and mixed media Foreign news revived? Covering wars in an era of terrorism News and comment on the Internet Educating journalists Conclusion: journalism at a time of change. This monograph provides an updated look at criticisms of journalism and evaluates ongoing changes in the profession. The work aims to be appropriate for academics, practitioners, and as a supplemental text for media criticism courses.