JOURNALISTS AS GATEKEEPERS
Ethical journalists, and the sources who publish them, do have a responsibility to prevent false information from infecting the population. Some may see this as “gatekeeping,” since it might prevent some people from writing articles in certain publications. Some would argue that all readers should be free to decide which evidence is valid and which is not, and that all ideas should flow freely everywhere. However, since most people do not have the time, skill or resources to investigate all claims, journalists have an obligation to diligently research everything they publish, and publications have an obligation to check the facts in every article under their aegis.
In today's media climate, the function of a gatekeeper inside journalism is extremely important. Gatekeepers ultimately direct and coordinate what is disseminated to the general public, so determining the social reality and worldview of the populace (Shoemaker & Vos, 2009).
The distinction between defining who the media viewers are and who the journalists are in today's society has become increasingly hazy in recent years. Due to social media's early adoption and widespread accessibility, it is difficult to distinguish between public opinion and newsworthy information.
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These social media channels have significantly increased in popularity as a result of the fast-paced and competitive media world of today, providing platforms where everyone and everyone may work as a journalist. So why do we still require gatekeeping journalists today? There is a drive to try and deregulate clickbait and fake news within the media since the public needs trustworthy, knowledgeable, and relevant sources they can rely on for news.
These social media channels have significantly increased in popularity as a result of the fast-paced and competitive media world of today, providing platforms where everyone and everyone may work as a journalist. So why do we still require gatekeeping journalists today? There is a drive to try and deregulate clickbait and fake news within the media since the public needs trustworthy, knowledgeable, and relevant sources they can rely on for news.