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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The War on Journalism summary
Andrew Fowler
Media Moguls, Whistleblowers and the Price of Freedom
15 mins
Brief summary
The War on Journalism by Andrew Fowler uncovers the dangers and hardships faced by journalists in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia as they risk their lives to expose the truth and fight for press freedom.
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The War on Journalism
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Key idea 1 of 6
In a democracy, the media need to be free to conduct investigations and report the news.
Do you read the news? Have you followed major developments such as Edward Snowden’s revelations about the US National Security Agency or the so-called Panama Papers?
If so, you’re familiar then with both whistleblowers and investigative journalists, and understand how the activities of both groups can affect society at large.
The media is often called the fourth estate. Coined in Britain in the eighteenth century, this term set journalists and their craft as a check on the power of society’s other “estates,” namely the clergy, the nobility and the common people.
Today, journalism’s role as the fourth estate is still important. When a government enacts harmful policies or officials pursue controversial plans, journalists are tasked with letting the public know, in effect working to curb the influence of the too-powerful in society.
The reasoning is simple. Citizens have the right to know the facts, so that they can make informed decisions.
The Guardian, for example, has a long track record of writing about controversial issues and has often collaborated with whistleblowers such as Edward Snowden on stories. The information Snowden released on the National Security Agency (NSA) in the United States – a secretive agency that was spying on US citizens and leaders abroad – sent shockwaves across the globe.
Journalists and publications such as the Guardian can only function if they can freely investigate issues on an independent basis. A free press is a crucial part of any democracy; if the state controls the press, it can limit the public’s access to information and cover up deeds about which it doesn’t want society to know.
Snowden’s NSA revelations, for instance, wouldn’t have been possible if he hadn’t had access to a free press.
While there are still many TV stations and newspapers run by governments in countries around the world, most media outlets are privately owned. This separation allows journalists to report on issues without fear of losing their jobs or being censored – or worse.
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What is The War on Journalism about?
The War on Journalism (2015) explores the challenges journalists face while seeking the truth amid increasing state control and private sector criticism. Even though the internet has allowed those in the media unprecedented access to people and information, equally technology and new rules of the game have made fact-seeking a far more problematic pursuit.
The War on Journalism Review
The War on Journalism (2021) uncovers the dangerous threats faced by journalists and the vital role they play in holding power to account. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Offers a sobering account of the challenges faced by journalists today, shedding light on the alarming rise of censorship and attacks on press freedom.
- Provides compelling stories of journalists who risk their lives to uncover the truth, showcasing the important role journalism plays in democracy.
- Examines the impact of disinformation and fake news on society, offering readers valuable insights to navigate the media landscape and make informed decisions.
Best quote from The War on Journalism
The Snowden case revealed once again the timidity of newspapers on both sides of the Atlantic when offered an astonishing story.
—Andrew Fowler
Who should read The War on Journalism?
- Aspiring journalists and media professionals
- Students of politics or sociology
- Anyone who follows the news
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The War on Journalism FAQs
What is the main message of The War on Journalism?
The main message of The War on Journalism is to expose the threats and challenges faced by journalism in the modern world.
How long does it take to read The War on Journalism?
The reading time for The War on Journalism varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The War on Journalism a good book? Is it worth reading?
The War on Journalism is worth reading as it provides valuable insights into the state of journalism today, shedding light on the importance of independent and responsible reporting.
Who is the author of The War on Journalism?
The author of The War on Journalism is Andrew Fowler.
What to read after The War on Journalism?
If you're wondering what to read next after The War on Journalism, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Nonviolent Communication by Marshall B. Rosenberg
- Deepfakes and the Infocalypse by Nina Schick
- Moll Flanders by Daniel Defoe
- The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
- How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes