Public interest journalism often refers to reporting matters of social relevance, which is information that the public has a right to know about.
In this definition, it is implied that undisclosed information affecting the public that governments, companies and other organisations hold would be unreported.
However, public interest journalism is not just about investigative or watchdog reporting.
It can also include other factual stories that serve the public interest, whether by providing a platform for debate or simply informing the public.
More often that not, public interest journalism does not report on what the public might find interesting or entertaining.
For profit stories about the private lives of celebrities and gossip about public figures have long been used as clickbait to attract views and advertisers but have no civic value.
In most cases, it is clear to see the line between public interest and non-public interest stories.
But sometimes, in stories concerning the private lives and actions of public figures in positions of power, the distinction is not made clear.
Public interest is having a safe, healthy and functional society. In a democratic society, journalism sees to that by informing people of their role in the democratic process.
Journalism and the media are the fourth estate, holding governments and other institutions accountable.
Sensationalist, fear-mongering press from the late 18th century to the media propaganda of the 20th century, fake news and disinformation is nothing new and has been around ever since the press came into existence.
In the 21st century where the internet has become the primary source of news for many, its speed and spread of disinformation has devastating consequences.
Inaccurate reporting, whether deliberate or just careless, has the potential to undermine society’s democracy as the public are confused about the basic facts.
There are many problems to tackle in the media industry all over the world. This might involve media outlets and others working together to provide news literacy tools to help the public recognise and report fake news.
Journalism contains a public service ethic. To fulfill this public service role, journalists must build and maintain the trust of the public by behaving in an ethical and professional manner.
Other social concerns have to be weighed up alongside public interest storytelling, which include an individual’s right to privacy, legal considerations and national security.
