Why Aren't More Journalists Doing Investigative Work?
Recently, while reviewing two independent news websites that focus on reporting the truth, I was asked to financially support them as investigative journalism is considered very expensive. Despite my limited financial resources, I have already supported Wikipedia, The Guardian, and The New Daily Online. The question arises: why aren’t more journalists delving into investigative work?
The Current State of Investigative Journalism
The answer may be more nuanced than it seems. For those who claim investigative journalism is scarce, it must be noted that more journalists are engaged in this work now than ever before. This shift began in the post-Watergate era, and it has become a global movement. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) have also joined in, ensuring that the lights are still very much on in investigative reporting.
Barriers to Entry
Secondly, not all students gifted enough for the work complete journalism school. My experience suggests that only 20 percent of journalism school students can or are willing to do investigative work. Some are indeed lazy, but the more critical issue is that many become journalists with aspirations of interacting with individuals they consider richer, handsomer, and more powerful. This motivation is inherently at odds with the investigative spirit of questioning and challenging those in power.
Monetization Challenges
From a business perspective, it's challenging to monetize investigative work within media enterprises. Joseph Stiglitz, a renowned economist, stated that making a profit from investigative journalism is virtually impossible. James T. Hamilton, in his work Democracy's Detectives, argues that while investigative reporting creates significant social value, it is difficult for enterprises to convert this value into tangible profits.
The media landscape has been struggling to survive for over two decades. This decline has led to severe cutbacks in personnel, including investigators. Despite these challenges, some media outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian have invested heavily in investigative journalism (IJ) to maintain their integrity and reach.
Where to Start
For those interested in pursuing investigative journalism, there are still numerous outlets where such work can be done. You may need to look for specific sites, but the Global Investigative Journalism Network can be a great starting point. They offer resources, support, and a platform for sharing investigative stories.
In conclusion, the barriers to investigative journalism are complex and varied, from personal motivations to business challenges. However, with the right mindset and support, it is still a viable and impactful career path.