Are reporters doomed?

A British newspaper editor is predicting “the end of the reporter” in a new media world. David Leigh of the Guardian envisions a future in which “news bunnies” and bloggers will have a role to play, but not “proper reporters.” His contention is that the real power of reporting does not lie with journalists but with powerful media outlets.

When the media fragment — as they will — and splinter into a thousand websites, a thousand digital channels, all weak financially, then we will see a severe reduction in the power of each individual media outlet. The reporter will struggle to be heard over the cacophony of a thousand other voices. Politicians will no longer fear us. And if that day comes, I’m afraid it really will be the end of the reporter.

Is he suggesting that competition isn’t good for journalism?

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