Journalism is dead. Long live journalism. The overarching theme of Pablo Mancini’s new book presents a fresh perspective on the world of journalism and its business. Mancini, a seasoned journalist with a history at Perfil.com, Amazon, and The Washington Post, advocates for a revitalization of traditional journalism—one that values the gritty pursuit of truth over cold algorithms and profit. He expresses a desire for a journalism that breathes the life of the streets and seeks authenticity, resisting the temptations of listicles and superficial content pushed by tech-driven editors.
Mancini, who specializes in digital media development, warns against the pressures that diminish journalistic integrity. His book offers a first-person narrative exploring the chaotic journalism landscape in places like Hong Kong, Seoul, and Buenos Aires, where the quest for likes and clicks can overshadow meaningful reporting. He argues that writers should not see themselves as victims of corporations, benefactors, or artificial intelligence, but should instead strive for content that resonates with readers’ needs rather than merely chasing metrics and advertising revenue.
He also highlights the challenges facing journalists in Argentina, where many are reluctant to collaborate with their peers. Mancini notes a stark contrast with the United States and Europe, where teamwork is often more prevalent. Drawing from his extensive experience, he emphasizes the importance of viewing journalism through a realistic and expansive lens, understanding the capitalist framework at play while respecting the audience’s intelligence. He believes that often, the editorial whims, influenced by fleeting trends on social media, can overshadow a journalist’s duty to inform the public.
Mancini laments the dismissal of objective journalism amid the era of digital noise, advocating for a return to a style that focuses on human stories rather than impersonal topics. He stresses the need for greater understanding and empathy among journalists, stating that success in media requires not just financial viability but also a commitment to meaningful storytelling.
Off the Record delves into the media industry, offering insights into those shaping news narratives while also providing a traveler’s guide for navigating the digital landscape. Mancini recalls a pivotal moment in Hong Kong when the Chinese government raided the Apple Daily, showcasing the urgent necessity for truth in an age increasingly troubled by misinformation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and psychological dynamics within the industry, acknowledging that decisions made by media leaders often stem from personal experiences and societal contexts.
He critiques the tendency to oversimplify the media landscape, where algorithms often prioritize profit over truth. Mancini makes a clear distinction between the tools for honest reporting and those used for deception, urging a return to the foundational principles of journalism.
Furthermore, he raises a thought-provoking point about the need for a more sophisticated approach to cultural journalism. He argues that a section dedicated to high culture should challenge its audience with a respectful and educated discourse, rather than assuming ignorance. This contrasts with other sections of media that rarely simplify their subject matter.
Drawing from historical observations about media practices, Mancini urges journalists to shed the passive roles that have emerged and to reclaim responsibility for exploring and reporting on the unpredictable world around them. The mission remains clear: to make visible the hidden forces that shape our understanding of reality.
Source: https://www.perfil.com/noticias/cultura/el-gran-regreso-del-periodismo.phtml
