What and Who Exactly are Journalists

We live in a world saturated with information. Between 24-hour news cycles, social media "breaking news" threads, and viral TikToks, it’s easy to think that anyone with a camera is a journalist. But while technology has democratized the tools of the trade, the profession itself is defined by much more than just hitting "publish." We clearly state that we're opinion based bloggers, not journalists.

What is Journalism?

At its core, journalism is the gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting of news and information. It’s often called the "First Draft of History." Its primary purpose is to provide citizens with the verified information they need to make the best possible decisions about their lives, their communities, and their governments.

Who is a Journalist?

A journalist isn’t just someone who writes; they are a gatekeeper of truth. Whether they are a seasoned investigative reporter for a major paper or a freelance photojournalist in a war zone, they are bound by a specific set of professional standards:

• Verification: This is the "North Star." Unlike influencers who might prioritize speed or "vibes," journalists must verify facts before sharing them.

• Objectivity & Fairness: While total neutrality is a myth, journalists strive for a fair representation of multiple perspectives, ensuring the "who, what, where, when, and why" are covered without personal bias.

• Accountability: If a journalist gets it wrong, they are ethically obligated to issue a correction. Their credibility is their only currency.

The Different Faces of the Press

The "who" in journalism covers a wide range of specialized roles:

Reporter-The boots on the ground who interview sources and gather the raw facts with a unbiased lens at least to the public as much as possible.

Opinion Columnist, Contributor, Commentator-The person who gives opinion based commentary, analysis and insight.

Why the Distinction Matters

In a "Post-Truth" era, knowing who is a journalist matters because accountability matters. A "citizen journalist" might capture a viral video of an event, which is incredibly valuable. However, the professional journalist takes that video, verifies its metadata, interviews the people involved, checks the local laws, and provides the context that explains why the event happened in the first place.

Labels Matter: The Reporter vs. The Columnist

A recent segment on CNN’s The News with Abby Phillip perfectly illustrated why these professional titles aren't just semantics—they are a contract with the audience.

The panel featured Brianna Lyman, who was labeled on-screen as a "Reporter," and Lydia Moynihan, who is a "Columnist." This distinction is where the tension lies for many viewers:

• The Expectation of a Reporter: When you see the title "Reporter," there is an implied promise of objectivity. As the saying goes, you’re supposed to "leave your bias at the door." When a reporter leans heavily into personal or political bias, it creates a "credibility gap." If the audience feels they are being preached to rather than informed, the title of "Reporter" begins to lose its meaning.

• The Freedom of a Columnist: On the flip side, a columnist like Moynihan has "permission" to have an edge. The title itself signals to the viewer: "I am here to provide analysis and a specific point of view." #### The Integrity of the Title The issue arises when the lines get blurred. If someone carries the title of a reporter but performs the role of an advocate, it muddies the water for the entire profession. Journalism thrives on clear boundaries:

• Reporters provide the "what."

• Columnists provide the "so what?"

If you want to call yourself a reporter, you have to be willing to follow the facts wherever they lead—even if they contradict your own world view. If you'd rather champion a specific side, the title of Columnist or Commentator is a much more honest fit.

Final Thoughts

Journalists are supposed to be the "Watchdogs of Democracy." They supposed to be are the ones who ask the uncomfortable questions to people in power so that the public doesn't have to. So, the next time you read a headline, look for the byline. Behind that name is someone (hopefully) committed to the truth, no matter how messy it gets.