SubscribePlastic news, Internet and the political discourse
Posted in Television, Internet, News on August 16th, 2007. By Maren Hermans.
One quarter of all Americans are using the Internet as their primary source of information, and they have some comments on traditional news coverage on television: artificial, not trust-able, biased, uncaring, are only some of the appraisals published in a new study.
Since traditional press lost exclusive rights on news-reporting and therewith much of its power, this would have been a good time for journalists to focus on their role in democratic society. But instead, smiling anchorman and his charming sidekick got involved in some storytelling that misses spirit and realness. The Internet news delivery is much stronger and ‘more real’ for many:
‘The straightforward, scannable delivery is refreshing. And when combined with a non-linear presentation, on-demand video and two-way interactivity, the internet is clearly the superior medium for news.’
Lost Remote’s Cory Bergman writes. Also, the new wave of political videos on YouTube enables criticism on politicians and their actions. On Internet platforms, one can follow political discussions and even participate. It seems like YouTube became the controlling instance America’s traditional media failed to be. But what does that mean for the quality of news coverage?
‘As the Internet demolishes the barriers of entry for multimedia political discourse, it is also rapidly eroding the importance of true debate and rhetoric.’
NewTeeVee’s Craig Rubens writes. His concerns are well grounded, as a published video on YouTube is not a guarantee for an actual confrontation of responsible politicians. In this case, it is still the news-reporter on television who controls questions and receives answers.
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