Journalism for a Consumer Culture

As I was reading "Backpack Journalism Is Here to Stay" I couldn't help but see a strong correlation between the media and the very powerful consumer culture we live in. Journalists are using their individual skills in collaboration with colleagues in order to cater to the needs of the individual reader. Our field is being tailored to fit the demands of an audience with increasingly specific requirements and preferences. We are learning how to be relevant in the lives of consumers who expect immediate, accurate and readily accessible results. By converting to a multimedia way of storytelling, journalists are allowing the public to interact with their news.

As discussed in the reading, we must present a complete package of current and past information in various forms. The synthesis of information from different news stations, as is prevalent now, seems to be changing as time progresses and more people are emerging with formal training in media convergence. What we must keep focus on is that specialization is not, and probably will never be, obsolete. There will always be a need for well-trained individuals with specific fortes who can contribute to any number of projects. To be accurate in presenting information, certain qualities will always be necessary and is important to remember to not get lost in the montage of gathering numerous surface level skills.