The Age Of Me....isms

I recently posted about learning how to become a reflective listener.*  Today I am reflecting about a trend in journalism that seems to focus more on the reporter than on the news she/he is reporting.  The journalist, whether in print, on electronic media, or on TV should, I believe, separate him/herself from the story, and report on the facts.  If those facts have been hidden from the public then a good reporter rolls up her/his sleeves and wades into the quagmire of this non-transparent situation.  Getting and reporting the truth becomes more important than personnel accolades.

The news is not about the person reporting it; it is about the facts and presenting these facts in a clear concise manner that helps the reader discern the truth of a situation.  The reporters' thoughts and feelings will be reflected in the words of the report, but do not have to include personnel antidotes of the reporter's life.  The reader/listener should be able to discern on their own the tone and texture of the article....

This, I feel, is the mark of a good journalist.  It comes with practice, maturity, and with wise counsel and good mentors.  New reporters can benefit from sage guidance.  Realizing that thousands have proceeded them; reviewing these peoples vast works; learning to apply what they learn to their own style; and learning that their gift and skill is to be accurate reporters of all events is where to begin.  Taking who they think they are out of the mix, letting their personalities flavor the report, but not be the main ingredient is what I believe separates good reporters from the want-to-be amateurs. After all it is not their being there that is important it is their ability to report what they see, hear, and experience that is important.  

As on old ad says, "an inquiring mind wants to know"... I add not only an inquiring mind, but an impartial mind... Remove ME...isms from news reporting and focus on the news that is happening out there not on who you are.

An impartial mind that is not self-centered, but is rather centered in self, allows for the reporting of all news to be more honest, helpful, and non-prejudiced.  This in my opinion is the mark of excellent journalism and great journalists.  

* Refer to earlier post "Reflections" *