Chapter Six
Abstract
The existential dimension of journalistic professionalism is examined, focusing on personal identity, motivation and ethical responsibility. How journalists define themselves in relation to their work, audiences and societal roles – particularly in terms of social responsibility, is also explored. The participant interviews reveal tensions between journalism being regarded as a profession and as a trade, as well as between institutional expectations and individual values. The impact of digital media, citizen journalism and social media on professional identity is also discussed and the concept of the “unethical professional” is also explored.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Journalism and Media Studies
Media Studies and Communication
Literature
Film
and Journalism Analysis
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 78–94
- Publication date
- 2 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter