Lecture Eleven

In this journalism lecture we were introduced to 'Investigative Journalism.' Although I am of the opinion that all journalism is supposed to have some degree of investigation, sadly I concede that this isn't necessarily the case all the time. There's always going to be gossip and tabloid media, however early reports actually suggest that the decline in the media industry's funds impacts on the quality of journalism. Obviously investigative journalism isn't quite extinct yet, the way in which journalists have followed up on and reported the issues that Wikileaks has released over the past few yes is perhaps testament to this.


So what is Investigative Journalism?


- Critical and thorough journalism
Investigative Journalists put a lot of time and effort into their stories. Vast amounts of research have to be done to fully investigate stories, particularly if they are controversial. 


- Custodians of conscience
In investigating important social issues, journalists uphold society's moral code, presenting the truth or unknown aspects of stories which enable to public to act upon injustices. A good example of this would be the 4 Corners report in 2011 revealing the cruel treatment of Australian cattle that are exported live to Indonesia. After the report aired, the public pressured the Government to stop the mistreatment and within days the Prime Minister had suspended all live exports to the offending abattoirs. 


- To provide a voice for those without one and to hold the powerful to account
Again my cattle example works well here. Cows don't exactly have a voice in Australia but through the investigation of a few ABC journalists, their suffering was presented to the public who demanded that the offenders be stopped. In a non-animal example, investigative stories that bring the plight of impoverished people and the injustices they face to the public raise awareness of many issues that were previously not known. This is not to say that the public don't actually care about the issues, but unless there are people providing them with information (journalists) it is unlikely they will ever find out about it.


- Fourth Estate (Watchdog)

The final role of investigative journalism is as the 'fourth estate. 'Journalists represent the interests of those without power to balance the power of government. In addition to this they ensure free flows of information necessary for the functioning of democracy by interrogating the judiciary, executive and legislature

“Watchdog.” Journalists make accountable public personalities and institutions whose functions impact social and political life.