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Yesterday, Politico published an article expressing concern about the diminishing “swagger” in American journalism. According to the writer, Jack Shafer, journalism’s self-confidence appears to be declining amidst an uncertain future. The writer suggests that the once trusted and assertive profession has been supplanted by an industry that is more timid and defensive.
Shafer argues that existing journalists should regain their edge, while also acknowledging that some already display “swagger”. However, his characterization of these media figures suggests a bias towards those with left-leaning views. Taking an introspective view, Shafer unwittingly provides an epitaph for traditional journalism, as the mainstream media seems to be losing its grip amid attacks from politicians and public criticism.
Interestingly, Shafer reminiscences about the “good old days” of journalism – a time when individuals with more contentious viewpoints, reminiscent of the tough and fearless characters who helped to shape the country, were not only welcomed, but celebrated in newsrooms. The author indirectly suggests that the media’s fall from grace is linked with its complicity in disseminating misleading reports about significant political themes such as Russian collusion, which ended up alienating readers and viewers.
The article also points out that journalists today are often subject to ridicule and harassment at public venues such as political rallies. However, instead of making attempts to regain public trust and confidence, they cry foul at increasing dissent and criticism.
Essentially, the lamentation in Shafer’s piece suggests that modern journalism is longing for a sense of control it once held over public opinion – a control founded on trust and credibility, which is now being challenged, externalized in part by the intense scrutiny and pressure from political figures like Donald Trump.
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