Isabella Carter
The term member of the media is ambiguous and can be interpreted in various ways. Traditionally, the media has been associated with mass media organizations such as movie studios, publishing companies, and radio and television stations. However, with the advent of new media technologies like blogs, social media, and online news websites, the definition of who constitutes a member of the media has become more complex and controversial. Some people consider bloggers and social media influencers with a substantial following to be members of the media, while others argue that the term should be reserved for traditional journalists who work for established news organizations. Legal cases have also highlighted the ambiguity, with courts in different states ruling differently on whether bloggers and website owners should be afforded the same protections as traditional journalists under shield laws. The criteria for determining who is a member of the media can vary depending on the context, the platform, and the specific definition used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Being a journalist | Scott Whitmore, a writer, considers himself a journalist, but not a member of the media |
| Being a blogger | Some bloggers are considered members of the media, but not all |
| Having a large following | Digital media members like bloggers or social influencers must have at least 10,000 followers to qualify as press |
| Reporting the truth | Jeff Gluck, a member of the media, believes his responsibility is to report the truth to his readers |
| Being a legitimate publisher of information | The New Hampshire Supreme Court ruled that a website is a member of the press as it is a "legitimate publisher of information" |
| Being an active member of a press group | Verified press attendees who are active members of specific press groups have their press badge fee waived |
| Paying membership dues | Media sales membership dues cost $600 annually |
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What You'll Learn
Bloggers and social influencers with 10,000+ followers can be media members
The term "member of the media" is subjective, and there is no definitive answer as to what constitutes being one. However, with the rise of social media, the landscape of media has evolved, and the roles of bloggers and social media influencers have become increasingly prominent.
Bloggers have been requesting press passes and media credentials, positioning themselves as members of the online or "new" media. They believe they should be treated the same as traditional journalists and seek similar privileges. However, their behaviour often contradicts this classification, leaving public relations professionals confused about how to interact with them. Bloggers often have "PR Friendly" badges on their sites, indicating their willingness to work with public relations professionals. While some bloggers may be considered journalists, many are experts, grassroots activists, humourists, or niche celebrities who do not conform to the traditional definition of a journalist.
Social media influencers have also gained significant attention in recent years. They are individuals who have the power to influence the purchasing decisions and behaviours of their followers due to their authority, knowledge, or relationship with their audience. Influencers typically focus on specific niches such as fashion, travel, gaming, beauty, cooking, or fitness. They create content around these topics, and their opinions hold weight, affecting both their followers' choices and broader cultural trends. While some mega-influencers are celebrities who gained fame offline, many others have built their vast followings solely through their online presence.
Considering the impact and reach of bloggers and social influencers, it can be argued that those with a substantial following of 10,000+ can be considered media members. They have the ability to shape discussions, influence trends, and affect consumer behaviour, which are characteristics often associated with traditional media. Additionally, they serve as a marketing tool for brands, leveraging their influence to promote products and shape purchasing decisions.
However, it is essential to note that the line between bloggers/influencers and traditional media members can be blurry. While some bloggers strive to uphold journalistic principles, others may prioritise personal gains or endorsements. The credibility and transparency of bloggers and social media influencers are often questioned, especially in fields requiring expert knowledge. Ultimately, the definition of a "member of the media" is evolving, and the impact of bloggers and social media influencers with substantial followings cannot be overlooked in the modern media landscape.
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Courts may recognise bloggers as legitimate news entities
The definition of a "member of the media" is a complex and evolving concept, especially with the rise of online media platforms and bloggers. Traditionally, the term “journalist” is often associated with individuals working for newspapers, magazines, or broadcast media like TV and radio. However, the digital age has blurred these lines, and bloggers and social media influencers are now significant players in the dissemination of information.
In the context of legal proceedings, the question of who constitutes a "member of the media" becomes even more crucial. A notable case involving a blogger, Crystal Cox, set a precedent in this regard. Cox was sued for defamation by Obsidian Finance Group and its principal, Kevin Padrick, over a blog post accusing them of tax fraud. Initially, a lower court judge ruled against Cox, finding that she was not a traditional journalist and thus not entitled to the same protections as the institutional press.
However, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals overturned this decision, ruling that Cox was entitled to the same free speech protections as traditional journalists. The court's opinion, penned by Judge Andrew Hurwitz, stated that "a First Amendment distinction between the institutional press and other speakers is unworkable." This ruling set an important precedent, recognizing that non-institutional media-like bloggers play a significant role in spreading information.
The decision in the Cox case aligns with the principle established in the 1974 U.S. Supreme Court case of Gertz v. Robert Welch Inc., which emphasized the importance of shielding "the press and broadcast media from the rigors of strict liability for defamation." While the Gertz court did not explicitly include non-institutional media defendants, the appeals court in the Cox case interpreted the First Amendment protections broadly.
In conclusion, courts are increasingly recognizing that bloggers and non-traditional media entities play a vital role in disseminating information to the public. While the definition of a "member of the media" may continue to evolve, courts are likely to err on the side of protecting free speech and ensuring that legitimate news entities, regardless of their format, are afforded the necessary legal protections.
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Freelancers may not consider themselves media members
The definition of a "member of the media" is a complex and evolving topic, especially with the rise of new media and the diverse range of platforms available today. The term "media member" can encompass various roles, from traditional journalists working for newspapers, magazines, TV, and radio, to the more recent inclusion of bloggers, social media influencers, and online content creators.
Freelancers, including writers, bloggers, and content creators, may not consider themselves media members due to several reasons. Firstly, the term "media member" often carries a sense of traditional association with established news organizations or media houses. Freelancers often work independently and may not be affiliated with any specific organization, which can lead them to perceive themselves as outside the traditional definition of "media."
Additionally, the nature of freelancing work can vary significantly. Some freelancers may primarily create content based on their opinions, personal experiences, or specialized knowledge, rather than engaging in traditional journalistic practices of reporting factual news stories. They may view their work as contributing to a niche audience or community, which may not align with the broader reach typically associated with mainstream media.
The line between opinion-based content and factual reporting has become blurred, especially with the rise of blogs and social media platforms. Many freelancers may identify more closely with the label of "content creator" or "influencer" rather than a "media member," as their work may involve a significant amount of self-expression, branding, and engagement with a specific target audience.
Furthermore, the legal and professional protections typically associated with traditional journalism may not always extend to freelancers. As seen in court cases, the definition of who qualifies as a journalist or media member can vary, and freelancers may not have the same access to protections like shield laws that safeguard the confidentiality of sources. This uncertainty can contribute to a perception among freelancers that they exist outside the boundaries of what constitutes a "media member."
Lastly, the term "media member" often implies a sense of objectivity and impartiality in reporting, which some freelancers may not associate with their work. Many freelancers build their personal brands and engage with specific niches or communities, which can influence their content and perspective. As such, they may view their work as more subjective and tailored to their audience's interests, potentially distancing themselves from the perceived objectivity associated with traditional media members.
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Media membership fees exist for certain organisations
Media membership fees are commonplace for certain organisations, particularly those that offer exclusive access to events, industry research, and other benefits. For example, the ATA (Archery Trade Association) charges media sales membership dues of $600 annually, which include access to members-only support, events, and industry research. Similarly, the News/Media Alliance offers membership to print and digital news or media organisations, providing benefits such as industry advocacy, access to working groups, and proprietary industry research. Membership fees for such organisations can vary depending on the specific association and the level of membership.
The News/Media Alliance, for instance, offers different tiers of membership, including corporate-level membership for newspaper, magazine, and digital media publishers, as well as associate-level membership for suppliers, vendors, and consultants. The Alliance comprises over 2,200 diverse publishers in the United States, advocating for industry priorities and the delivery of trusted content.
The ATA, on the other hand, caters to both exhibiting and non-exhibiting media companies, offering varying numbers of free media sales badges and additional badges for purchase. Press members who meet the registration criteria are charged $100, while non-members are charged $150. However, members of specific groups, such as the Outdoor Writers Association of America and the Professional Outdoor Media Association, have their press badge fees waived.
Another example is Medium, a social media platform, which offers a subscription-based membership model. While not specifically limited to media professionals, Medium provides access to a vast array of high-quality articles, books, and member-only content for a fee.
These media membership fees are designed to provide exclusive benefits, foster industry connections, and, in some cases, grant access to events or resources that facilitate better reporting and content creation. The fees also help support the operations and initiatives of the respective organisations, contributing to the advancement of the media industry as a whole.
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Some commentators are not considered media members
The definition of a "member of the media" is a complex and evolving concept, especially in the age of new media and online publishing. While traditional media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, television, and radio have typically been considered the mainstream media, the rise of digital media and social media influencers has blurred the lines of what constitutes being a member of the media.
In the traditional sense, journalists working for established news organisations, such as newspapers or broadcast networks, are typically considered members of the media. They are often expected to adhere to journalistic ethics and standards, including fact-checking, source verification, and providing balanced reporting. However, even within this traditional framework, there are nuances. For example, commentators or analysts who provide opinions and analysis may not always be considered members of the media, especially if their focus is not on factual reporting.
With the rise of digital media, the definition of a "member of the media" has become even more complex. Bloggers, vloggers, and social media influencers now play a significant role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. While some may consider these content creators to be members of the media, others may argue that they do not fit the traditional definition due to the often opinion-based and less regulated nature of their content. For example, a blogger who primarily expresses personal opinions with minimal factual reporting may not be widely recognised as a member of the media.
Legal systems and courts have also grappled with the question of who qualifies as a member of the media, particularly in cases involving press privileges and protections. For instance, in a New Jersey defamation case, a trial judge ruled that a blogger was not a member of the news media and could not invoke reporter's privilege to protect their sources. In contrast, a California appeals court ruled in favour of a website as a legitimate news entity, granting it protection under shield laws.
In conclusion, the definition of a "member of the media" is evolving and varies depending on the context and the standards applied. While traditional journalists working for established news organisations are typically considered members of the media, the rise of new media has expanded the landscape, leading to ongoing debates about who should be included under this umbrella term.
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Frequently asked questions
Being a member of the media can be constituted by working for newspapers, magazines, television, radio, or the web. However, there is no definitive answer as to what constitutes being a member of the media, as it can vary depending on the context and the organization. Some organizations may have specific requirements, such as a minimum number of followers for digital media personalities like bloggers or social influencers.
Bloggers can be considered members of the media, depending on the context. Some courts in the United States have ruled that bloggers and websites are protected by shield laws and are considered legitimate news entities. However, other courts have ruled that bloggers do not qualify as members of the news media in certain cases.
There are various types of media, including print media (newspapers, magazines, books), digital media (websites, mobile phones), broadcast media (television, radio), and outdoor media (billboards, kiosks, augmented reality advertising).
