Breaking Story: The South African Press

The book explores the economic difficulties facing journalism, particularly the impact of television's increasing share of the advertising market, and focuses on the alternative press that emerged in the mid-1980s.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 332 pages
Publication date: 29 July 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted economic challenges confronting journalism, encompassing the profound impact of television's escalating dominance in the advertising market. It specifically delves into the emergence and significance of the alternative press, which emerged in the mid-1980s amidst the government's stringent suppression of dissent.

The alternative press emerged as a response to the constraints imposed by mainstream media outlets, which were often controlled by corporate interests and subjected to government regulations. These alternative publications sought to provide a platform for diverse voices and perspectives, challenging the dominant narratives and offering a more comprehensive coverage of social and political issues.

One of the key challenges facing the alternative press is the decline in advertising revenue. With the rise of digital media and the decline in print circulation, traditional advertising channels have become less lucrative, leading to a decrease in funding for alternative publications. This has resulted in a reduction in the number of staff, the quality of journalism, and the ability to cover critical issues in depth.

Despite these challenges, the alternative press continues to play a vital role in shaping public discourse and promoting social change. It provides a space for marginalized voices and communities to be heard, offering a counterbalance to the dominant narratives propagated by mainstream media outlets. Moreover, the alternative press has been at the forefront of advocating for transparency, accountability, and democratic governance, holding powerful institutions to account and challenging the status quo.

In conclusion, this book provides a valuable insight into the economic difficulties facing journalism, particularly the alternative press. It highlights the challenges posed by the decline in advertising revenue, the impact of digital media, and the need for alternative publications to adapt and thrive in the changing media landscape. By examining the resilience and significance of the alternative press, this book contributes to our understanding of the importance of independent media in a democratic society.

Weight: 610g
ISBN-13: 9780367161330