3.2 The Emergence of Political Journalism

Political journalism emerged as a distinct form during the Enlightenment, focusing on reporting and analyzing political events, issues, and personalities. It covers government activities, political parties, and politicians, while also providing commentary and creating a platform for public discourse.

This branch of journalism has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy decisions. It sets the agenda for public debate, frames political issues, and holds politicians accountable. However, it can also contribute to polarization and the spread of misinformation.

The Emergence of Political Journalism

Definition of political journalism

Top images from around the web for Definition of political journalism

• 

  Journalism, Thrill of Pursuing Truth on Perilous Path View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Political Journalism in a Populist Age | Shorenstein Center View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Technologies of Public Communication | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism, Thrill of Pursuing Truth on Perilous Path View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Political Journalism in a Populist Age | Shorenstein Center View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Definition of political journalism

• 

  Journalism, Thrill of Pursuing Truth on Perilous Path View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Political Journalism in a Populist Age | Shorenstein Center View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Technologies of Public Communication | Public Speaking View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Journalism, Thrill of Pursuing Truth on Perilous Path View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Political Journalism in a Populist Age | Shorenstein Center View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Branch of journalism focused on reporting and analyzing political events, issues, and personalities
• Covers government, political parties, and politicians
• Analyzes political strategies, policies, and decision-making processes
• Conducts investigative reporting on political scandals, corruption, and abuses of power (Watergate)
• Provides commentary and opinion pieces on political issues and events
• Creates a platform for public discourse and debate on political matters (televised debates)

Political journalism in Enlightenment era

• Age of Enlightenment (18th century) saw the rise of political journalism as a distinct form
• Political newspapers and pamphlets emerged (The Spectator, The Federalist Papers)
• Growth of literate middle class increased demand for political news and commentary
• Enlightenment ideas influenced political discourse (individual rights, democracy, social contract)
• Journalism used as a tool for political activism and reform (works of Thomas Paine, Mary Wollstonecraft)

Political journalism vs party politics

• Political journalism crucial in development and growth of political parties in 18th and 19th centuries
• Parties used journalism to:
  • Promote ideologies, policies, and candidates
  • Mobilize supporters and attract new members
  • Attack and discredit political opponents
• Newspapers and magazines aligned with specific parties, creating partisan press (Federalist Party's Gazette of the United States, Democratic-Republican Party's National Gazette)
• Partisan nature of political journalism contributed to polarization of public opinion and intensification of political rivalries

Impact on public discourse and policy

• Political journalism significantly shapes public opinion and influences policy decisions
• Sets agenda for public debate by focusing attention on specific issues and events
• Frames political issues and events, influencing public perceptions and attitudes
• Provides platform for public deliberation and exchange of ideas
• Holds politicians and government officials accountable for actions and decisions
• Influences policy outcomes by mobilizing public support or opposition for specific policies or legislation
• Can have negative effects:
  • Contributes to spread of misinformation, propaganda, and fake news
  • Exacerbates political polarization and partisanship
  • Prioritizes sensationalism and conflict over substantive analysis and dialogue