Media credibility perceptions and its effect on shield laws
by Schulz, Christopher H., M.S., UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS, 2007, 76 pages; 1448709

Abstract:

This experimental study finds that the younger generation views online newspapers, blogs and message boards as equally credible. These results may be the consequence of a lack of critical thinking by the participants or it could reflect a familiarity with the Internet and new media. These results present an interesting dilemma for independent journalists subpoenaed to testify in court.

This is because blogs and message boards provide anyone the opportunity to easily publish information to the public. As a result, the Internet is challenging the definition of “journalist.” However, state shield laws only protect professional journalists when subpoenaed to testify. A common argument against protecting bloggers with a shield law is their lack of credibility.

This study also discusses the problem of protecting bloggers and message board users with a shield law when confronted with the credibility results.

 
AdviserTom Volek
SchoolUNIVERSITY OF KANSAS
SourceMAI/ 46-02, p. , Dec 2007
Source TypeThesis
SubjectsJournalism; Law
Publication Number1448709
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