Journalists' collective representation and editorial content in newspapers

Abstract

PurposeThis paper seeks to examine the intriguing juxtaposition of a bona fide independent union for journalists in the UK, which is vocal about editorial standards and interference, yet has seldom taken collective action to respond to such instances.Design/methodology/approachA grounded approach to this phenomenon is used by way of examining the intersection of the nature and influence of journalistic professionalism, the journalists' material and economic interests and the particular approach of the union to both these matters. The data are based on qualitative fieldworks supplemented by secondary sources.FindingsThe journalists and their union have yet to identify and articulate the conditions, which give rise to this situation and a strategy for defending their professional interests which is compatible with and supportive of strategies for defending their material interests.Practical implicationsThere is a need to develop a strategy by which journalists can collectively exert more influence over editorial content.Originality/valueThe quality of content of newspapers could be enhanced by the greater influence of journalists as a collective body.