This refers to the report "The challenge of staying relevant" (BS Weekend, September 28). A K Bhattacharya's review of George Brock's Out Of Print draws attention to important points that are of interest to journalists and their end-customers, the readers.
While updating of knowledge and skills is a vital survival mechanism in all professions, it is more intricate in journalism, particularly the print media. The longer the stint of the paper, the higher the number of its committed readers - some of whom want the paper to continue with the "time-honoured values of objectivity, fairness , balance and credibility" and the rest and new set of readers who want a change - in the get-up, content and presentation of news.
Should pin-ups be used to illustrate news? Should the headings be matter-of-fact or sensational and tantalising? Should technology be used to strengthen investigative reporting or extended to sting operations whose premise is to cheat the unsuspecting responder? Should the easy accessibility to obliging or interested government officials be used for disclosing sensitive news such as pertaining to armed forces that may enhance circulation but compromise national security? Should the fear or favour from the government of the day be an important policy issue?
Y G Chouksey Pune
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