Greg is a professional journalist and his works include The Road to Kosovo: A Balkan Diary, Blood Diamonds: Tracing the Path of the World's Most Precious Stones, and Flawless: Inside the Worlds Largest Diamond Heist in History. His books on blood diamonds inspired the film Blood Diamond starring Leonardo DiCaprio. I asked Greg what he thought about citizen journalism. His response was much different than what I read previously by Henry Jenkins. Campbell maintained that he didn't care if someone has a degree in journalism. He simply stated, if it is good writing and spreads information that needs to be shared then "I'm all for it" but placed emphasis on the "good writing" part.
After the night was over, my conversation got my thinking about citizen journalism more generally. Thanks to the Internet and mobile devices anyone can be a journalist. Furthermore Greg is correct, as long as the report is well written, who cares if the author has a degree. Thousands of stories have surfaced thanks to citizen journalism. The Internet has given everyone the opportunity to share information. The events that have unfolded in Libya this past year has had been covered by citizen journalist, here is a YouTube compilation of examples.
THIS VIDEO IS GRAPHIC AND MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL AUDIENCES
Greg Campbell's website can be found here
Agreed, Marc. I have to admit, I am a little jealous that you got to spend extra time with Mr. Campbell. I think a man like that who endorses citizen journalism makes it all the more legitimate. I especially appreciated your video of what was REALLY happening in Lybia. This is a prime example of exactly why citizen journalism is necessary. Unlike the media, they aren't afraid of what could happen to them because of the passion they feel about the subject they are reporting on. Examples like this are essential to advertise to the USA and other global superpowers with the most military strength and highly regarded foreign policy decision makers.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, what a neat experience to speak with Greg Campbell. I think it was interesting that you asked him about his opinion regarding citizen journalism. His insight alludes to the fact that even as a professional journalist, he is not bothered by citizen journalism because regardless, he still was successful.
ReplyDelete