Journalistic objectivity has always been a significant principle at the forefront of the industry, especially now, in times of citizen and participatory reporting. Even in historical times of breaking events, reporters and strategic communicators are influenced by ideological explanations of power and control. This book explores how the news operates through control mechanisms of sourcing and storytelling. While other studies in this area approach media through the specifics of production, separating theory from practice, Robert E. Gutsche, Jr. brings these approaches together to guide readers through introductions to basic journalistic reporting and writing skills while focusing on the social and cultural influence of the press.

Readers are introduced to critical and cultural theories of race, gender, history, and communication under the premise that journalists and strategic communicators operate in industries of profit, oppression, and control that benefit private enterprise. Gutsche argues that those who are aware of the power dynamics of the press and of professional communication can approach media messaging in ways that can benefit the social good by reconstructing communication to meet the needs of the public.

Robert E. Gutsche, Jr. is Senior Lecturer of Critical Digital Media Practice in the Department of Sociology at Lancaster University (UK). He was Assistant Professor of journalism and digital media studies at Florida International University in Miami.