Title
The "objectivity'' ideal and its limitations in 20th-century British journalism
Document Type
Journal article
Source Publication
Journalism Studies
Publication Date
1-1-2008
Volume
9
Issue
4
First Page
477
Last Page
493
Keywords
Anglo-American media traditions, British journalism, culture of journalism, objectivity, professional ideals, Communication
Abstract
Scholars of British journalism often refer to an Anglo-American shared ideal of "objectivity.'' While well-demonstrated in the American context, however, this ideal is merely assumed in the British context. In fact, a close examination of professional discourse among 20th-century British journalists shows the limitations of this ideal's appeal. Although it has appeared in particular contexts, specifically as corporate norms at Reuters and the BBC, throughout the 20th century it was never accepted as a generalized ideal among British journalists. Particularly among print journalists, such ideals as independence, fair play, and non-intervention by the state were far more compelling than objectivity.
DOI
10.1080/14616700802113060
Print ISSN
1461670X
E-ISSN
14699699
Publisher Statement
Copyright © 2008 Taylor & Francis
Access to external full text or publisher's version may require subscription.
Full-text Version
Publisher’s Version
Language
English
Recommended Citation
Hampton, M. (2008). The "objectivity'' ideal and its limitations in 20th-century British journalism. Journalism Studies, 9(4), 477-493. doi: 10.1080/14616700802113060
