Press Accountability Guideposts for Digital Media
Advisor Information
Hugh Reilly
Location
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
6-3-2015 3:00 PM
End Date
6-3-2015 3:15 PM
Abstract
A free press is an integral part of the fabric of the United States. Guaranteed by the First Amendment, freedom of the press expanded to encompass not only the printed form familiar to the founders of the nation, but to the technological advances that enlarged the scope of the press. Recognizing that accountability was a significant issue, mainstream press organizations developed accountability strategies to address complaints. As the press migrates to digital platforms, disrupting traditional media, and non-traditional sources proliferate, accountability is thrown into turmoil. In order to address this crisis, an examination of historical press accountability strategies for traditional media may provide approaches to bolster digital medial accuracy. This paper reviews historical press freedom and its impact on accountability strategies, public views of accountability, the history and effectiveness of ombudspersons and press councils, and several other strategies used in traditional media to encourage accountability. A brief overview of the state of digital media accountability will then be discussed. Finally, ideas for future research will be considered.
Press Accountability Guideposts for Digital Media
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
A free press is an integral part of the fabric of the United States. Guaranteed by the First Amendment, freedom of the press expanded to encompass not only the printed form familiar to the founders of the nation, but to the technological advances that enlarged the scope of the press. Recognizing that accountability was a significant issue, mainstream press organizations developed accountability strategies to address complaints. As the press migrates to digital platforms, disrupting traditional media, and non-traditional sources proliferate, accountability is thrown into turmoil. In order to address this crisis, an examination of historical press accountability strategies for traditional media may provide approaches to bolster digital medial accuracy. This paper reviews historical press freedom and its impact on accountability strategies, public views of accountability, the history and effectiveness of ombudspersons and press councils, and several other strategies used in traditional media to encourage accountability. A brief overview of the state of digital media accountability will then be discussed. Finally, ideas for future research will be considered.