When and why did journalism get this bad?

Secure Da Bag

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Exhibit A (WSJ journalist who covers crypto doesn't know what dogecoin or shiba inu is):


Exhibit B (UN group WFP misquoted by CNN and called out by Elon Musk, a non-journalist):



Was it after all the corporations bought the news agencies? Or was it even before then?

The point of the media is to let the people know about what they're government is truly doing. Another check against possible government corruption and/or malfeasance. But year after year, it just seems like the news is just more well-articulated sleights and distractions.

:francis:
 

Fat Fred Jones

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This is primarily consumer-driven. With the rise of digital media, companies can now easily see metrics on every individual thing they publish. When it comes to stories that are shared the most, unfortunately it's not the quality of the writing or even the truthfulness, it's moreso about how sensational the article is.

Furthermore, even the freelance journalists recognize the value of sensationalism. Add that to the ability to self-publish using social media, and this is the result.
 

Yinny

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Shangri-La
Low barrier to entry, anyone and their mom can claim journalism.

Pay is generally shyt until you make a name for yourself.

Subscriber ship is low, people love free shyt


Literally owned by billionaires

Standards for writing are abysmal

Sensationalism and scandals sell more than actual info/details

Clickbait eda

Credibility not a requirement
 

Vandelay

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Journalism has probably seen the most significant decline in quality out of any other industry.

Lax ownership regulations and the digitization of media is 90% responsible.

Some journalists just flat out suck like exhibit A.
 
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