Mongabay Highlights the Enduring Importance of Written Journalism in a Post-Literate Age

What's Happening?

In a recent article, Rhett Ayers Butler, the Founder and CEO of Mongabay, discusses the critical role of written journalism in an era increasingly dominated by short-form video content and smartphones. Butler references James Marriott's argument that society is moving towards a 'post-literate' state, where the deep reading habits that once supported democracy and scientific progress are being eroded. He emphasizes that written journalism remains essential for accountability, transparency, and informed decision-making. Mongabay's experience shows that written investigations often lead to policy changes and community empowerment, as they provide the detailed evidence needed for scrutiny and action.

Why It's Important?

The shift towards a post-literate society has significant implications for journalism and democracy. Written journalism provides a durable record that can be cited in legal and policy contexts, ensuring accountability and transparency. As video content becomes more prevalent, there is a risk that the depth and reasoning provided by written journalism could be overshadowed. This could lead to decision-making that is more emotive and less informed. The article underscores the need for a balanced approach, where both written and video content are used to complement each other, ensuring that journalism continues to contribute to meaningful societal change.

What's Next?

The future of journalism may involve finding innovative ways to integrate written and video content to reach broader audiences while maintaining the depth and accountability that written journalism provides. Media organizations might focus on creating content that combines the immediacy of video with the detailed analysis of written reports. This approach could help engage audiences who prefer visual content while still providing the comprehensive information needed for informed decision-making. The challenge will be to ensure that both formats are aligned towards the goal of fostering informed and engaged communities.

Beyond the Headlines

The discussion raises ethical and cultural questions about the role of media in shaping public discourse and the potential consequences of a decline in literacy. If society continues to move towards a post-literate state, there could be long-term impacts on democratic processes and civic engagement. The article suggests that maintaining a strong foundation of written journalism is crucial for preserving the intellectual rigor needed to support democratic institutions and informed public debate.