Rachael Southern, investigative journalist.
I never considered investigative journalism, but after creating an investigative news article for JOUR1710 Investigative Journalism, I think I'm sort of hooked.
According to Hugo do Burgh, a British media theorist, the role of "an investigative journalist is … to discover the truth and to identify lapses from it in whatever media may be available." Which seems like an incredibly noble job, but talking to ex- and current investigative journalists, it sounds like you really just get hooked. Obsessed with finding answers.
Investigative journalism is a cornerstone of our society. Critical and thorough journalism mean nothing gets left out, no leaf is unturned. Additionally the journalist is an active participant, meaning they have the ability to shape history - think of Watergate. Investigative journalists are custodians of conscience. They expose breaches of societies morals and and norms, allowing for the public to respond. Providing a voice to those who would otherwise go unheard is just as important for social justice as is exposing wrong doers. Finally, the media is a watchdog, it is the Fourth Estate. Without a truly free and independent media, the government and corporation would, to a large extent, be free to do as they please.
Lastly, an investigative journalist is independent and is therefore less prone to agenda setting. While person opinions can lead to journalists pursuing the wrong lead, there is less potential for the story to be altered - they are on the hunt for the truth!
It is sad to think that people are no longer willing to pay for good quality investigative journalism, and that it could potentially give way to more sensational reporting. The benefits of investigative journalism are far greater than a good article - they are after all an integral part of society the Fourth Estate.
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