By Muhammad Inuwa M/fashi
In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and the proliferation of information, the power of journalism often goes unappreciated.
Despite its foundational role in shaping public discourse, informing citizens, and holding power to account, many people underestimate the significance of journalism in society.
This underestimation can be attributed to several factors, including the rise of misinformation, the commodification of news, and the constant evolution of media consumption habits.
One of the primary reasons people underrate the power of journalism is the overwhelming presence of misinformation and fake news.
The digital age has made it easier than ever for false information to spread rapidly across social media platforms, often overshadowing accurate and well-researched journalistic work.
As a result, the public’s trust in traditional journalism has been eroded, leading to a sceptical attitude towards all news sources, regardless of their credibility.
This scepticism diminishes the perceived value of journalism, making it harder for genuine news to be recognized for its importance.
Additionally, the commodification of news has played a significant role in undermining the power of journalism.
Many media organizations, driven by the need to generate revenue, have shifted their focus towards sensationalism and clickbait content.
This trend prioritizes entertainment over informative and investigative reporting, reducing the perceived seriousness of journalism.
When news outlets prioritize sensational stories that attract views and clicks over in-depth analysis and investigative reporting, the public begins to view journalism as just another form of entertainment rather than a crucial pillar of democracy.
The evolution of media consumption habits also contributes to the underestimation of journalism’s power.
With the advent of digital media, people now have access to an endless stream of information at their fingertips.
This convenience has led to shorter attention spans and a preference for quick, easily digestible content.
Traditional forms of journalism, which often require more time and attention to understand and appreciate fully, are often overlooked in favour of brief news snippets or social media posts.
Consequently, the depth and value of comprehensive journalism are lost on many consumers.
Furthermore, the role of journalism in holding power to account is frequently taken for granted.
Investigative journalism has been responsible for uncovering numerous scandals, corruption cases, and human rights abuses.
However, the painstaking process of investigating and exposing such issues is often invisible to the public eye.
The result—a shocking headline or a damning report—may garner attention, but the immense effort behind it is rarely acknowledged.
This lack of recognition for the rigorous work involved contributes to the undervaluation of journalism.
Despite these challenges, the power of journalism remains undeniable. It serves as the watchdog of society, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance and other spheres of influence.
Journalists play a crucial role in educating the public, fostering informed debates, and promoting social change.
Without robust journalism, democracy itself is at risk, as citizens would be deprived of the information necessary to make informed decisions. To counter the underestimation of journalism’s power, it is essential to foster media literacy among the public.
Educating individuals about the importance of credible news sources and the role of journalism in a democratic society can help restore trust and appreciation for the profession.
Moreover, supporting independent and investigative journalism financially and through engagement can ensure that journalists continue to produce high-quality, impactful work.
In conclusion, while the power of journalism may be underrated by many, its significance cannot be overstated.
As society continues to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape, recognizing and valuing the essential role of journalism is more important than ever. By understanding the challenges faced by journalists and the crucial function they serve, we can begin to appreciate the true power of journalism in shaping a just and informed world.
Muhammad Inuwa M/fashi Social Commentator
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