What Is Journalism For?

Author: Jon Allsop Series: What Is It For?

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What is at stake when journalism is threatened? Does society still need journalists?

Journalism faces multiple threats today all over the world: economic decline, online disinformation, the rise of AI, authoritarian curbs on freedom of the press, and violence against journalists. In such a climate, it's more urgent than ever to ask what journalism is for.

Drawing on his experience as a journalist and media commentator, and on interviews with journalists from the US to Myanmar, Jon Allsop examines key concepts that constitute journalism's role: good judgement, concern for truth and critical scrutiny of one or more communities.

Along the way, he also considers the relationship between journalism and activism; whether journalists should aspire to change the world and whether they can be seen as champions of democracy.

Critic Reviews

“Jon Allsop brings his trademark blend of expert knowledge and astute analysis to bear on this pressing topic at a crucial time for the global press and public. If you care about democracy, you'll want to read it.” Margaret Sullivan, Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism

"A powerful call to action for journalists and citizens alike to defend democratic values and protect the vital role of journalism in shaping a just and informed society." Laurent Richard, investigative reporter and founder of Forbidden Stories

“A veritable feast of Jon Allsop! This great book serves up delicious insights about the nature of journalism and its future.” Joel Simon, Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at CUNY

"Jon Allsop acknowledges journalism's flaws yet defends its necessity. Through vivid examples from Myanmar, the US and the UK, he illustrates how journalism's commitment to seeking and sharing truth is more vital than ever – especially amid democratic erosion and technological disruption." Sheila S. Coronel, Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism

About the Author

Jon Allsop writes for the Columbia Journalism Review, editing its flagship "Media Today" newsletter.

He also writes widely about politics and other topics for publications including the New York Review of Books, The Guardian, N+1, Foreign Policy, The Atlantic, Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Intercept. His investigative journalism has been published in national and local titles in the US and South Africa.

Jon has been a finalist for a prestigious Mirror Award for his media criticism on three occasions, and his work has often been cited by major publications in the US and globally, from the Washington Post to Politico. He has regularly been invited to appear as an expert commentator on the media, including on US public radio stations, Al Jazeera, and CNN and was a juror for the Pulitzer Prizes in 2024.

Originally from the UK, Jon holds degrees in political science from the London School of Economics and journalism from Columbia University.