THE PEEPAL TREE

What Is Media Literacy and Why It’s Crucial in Today’s Digital Age? In this technological era where technology has answers to almost all our questions, information plays a very big role. We have numerous mediums through which we constantly come to know something or the other. We listen to this information, speak the same, and spread it as well. This is a time where there is no limit to what information can be. Everyone has the means to create and spread information, and in such a situation, many questions arise. If people have something, how do they use it? How accurate is the information people are spreading? How wisely are they thinking about it? Is there a need to set some boundaries for it? Because today everyone has a phone in hand, and not everyone has studied journalism, yet more than half the people are doing this work without any formal education in journalism or media. So, is there a need for education in this as well? That’s where the topic of media literacy comes in. ...

In recent years, journalism has witnessed a disconcerting shift. While once a vocation pursued by individuals deeply connected to society, today's media landscape increasingly hosts professionals who seem detached from the communities they serve. The allure of quick fame, coupled with an education system that focuses on technical skills over core journalistic values, has led to a media culture that often lacks empathy and integrity. Many aspiring journalists enter the industry without a genuine passion for the craft or a true understanding of their role in society. This trend not only impacts the quality of news but also contributes to a growing public mistrust of media. Disconnected Journalism: The Absence of Passion and Core Values in Modern Media Professionals The Gap in Journalistic Passion and Commitment Journalism has traditionally been more than a job—it’s been a calling. Great journalists like Edward R. Murrow, Ida B. Wells, and Anna Politkovskaya pursued their work with co...

The Core Values of Journalism: Lessons in Life and Integrity As a journalism student, I’ve come to understand that the values which shape a good journalist are the same ones that define a person of character. Journalism isn’t just about crafting stories or uncovering facts; it’s about pursuing truth, staying grounded, and reflecting on what it means to live with integrity. In many ways, journalism holds up a mirror to the values we ought to embody as human beings. Journalism, as I see it, is less of a career and more of a guide to life. It teaches you to look deeply into situations, understand perspectives beyond your own, and remain grounded despite challenges. To survive in this world and the world of journalism, three qualities seem essential: common sense, flexibility, and being a good judge. These principles don’t just help you excel as a journalist; they build the foundation of a meaningful life. Common Sense: The Quiet Strength We All Need Common sense may sound like something s...