ABSTRACT
In the twenty-first century the production of news, and journalism of all kinds, is big business. The supply of information (whether as journalism or as rawer forms of data) occupies an industry of major economic importance, employing huge human and financial resources, and enjoying high status. Across the world, top newsreaders, anchor men and women, and newspaper columnists acquire the glamour of movie stars and exert the influence of politicians. Broadcasting companies judge themselves, and are judged, by the perceived quality of their news services.
