ABSTRACT
This chapter begins with disrupting detachment and adopting engagement. Good journalism is not defined by neutrality and "just the facts" reporting. It is defined by applying objective methods to an important political purpose – advocacy for egalitarian democracy, and human flourishing, globally. The chapter proposes the ideal of democratically engaged journalists. It explains why this ideal is important. The main reason is that egalitarian democracy, a democracy that seeks equality as much as freedom defends the rule of law, protects minority rights from intolerant majorities, and encourages respectful debate, is in peril. The channels of information that inform democratic citizens – the very lifeblood of democracy – are polluted by false information, conspiracy theories, ideological extremism and manipulative groups. The chapter argues that dialogic democracy is the highest or fullest form of democracy. It also proposes journalism as lying between partisan advocacy and mincing neutrality. The chapter concludes with a reflection on emotions, or passions, in journalism.
