Observer or participator? Diversity challenges for the role of the media profession

Abstract

In the post 9/11 era there is considerable opportunity for the media profession to give insight into what has compelled one side to act in a way that has enraged and empowered another side to act in a manner that further caused hostility or anger to become entrenched.  When a crisis is on the rise, journalists, and the wider network of media, are often in a unique position to access areas where others are forbidden. Through skilful reporting journalists can elicit the specific points of justification from decision-makers and leaders. Where irony or illogic is discovered, seeking to discover the reason for this often identifies a vital link between ignorance and compulsion. When that connection is reported, the opportunity exists to inform.