ABSTRACT
News bulletins and programmes that used to be available only on television and radio sets are now available on phone or computer. News reports that were once presented to viewers and listeners only at certain times of day in a running order decided by editors and producers now appear on social networks, blogs, micro-blogs, email alerts and specialist websites. Most of the World Wide Web's content has tiny audiences. Andy Warhol's idea that everyone will be famous for 15 minutes has been modified by the idea that anyone can be famous for 15 people. The digital revolution means almost anyone can produce a video report and put it on a website for anyone to view. Michael Buerk, the veteran BBC reporter and newsreader, introduced himself on a celebrity edition of University Challenge as 'described as a "distinguished journalist", one of the great oxymorons of our time'. Many outlets will employ journalists on a freelance basis or on short-term contracts.
