This book features pathbreaking analysis from journalists and academics of the changing nature and peril of media capture--how formerly independent institutions fall under the sway of governments, plutocrats, and corporations. Contributors analyze diverse cases of media capture worldwide, many drawn from firsthand experience.
Crusading journalists have significantly influenced American politics by exposing power abuses, corporate misconduct, and government corruption. Muckraking journalism is integral to democracy, but its global impact is often overlooked. This groundbreaking work showcases pivotal examples of transformative journalism from the past century across all continents. Curated by leading international journalists from Asia, Africa, Latin America, Europe, and the Middle East, it includes Ken Saro-Wiwa's advocacy for the Ogoni people, Horacio Verbitsky's investigation into political detainee disappearances in Argentina, and Gareth Jones's reporting on the 1932-33 Ukraine famine. Other notable entries feature missionary newspapers addressing Chinese foot binding in the 19th century and Dwarkanath Ganguli's exposé of the British "coolie" trade in Assam. Edited by Anya Schiffrin, this collection serves as a comprehensive introduction to global journalism that has captured worldwide attention. In a time when human rights are under scrutiny and the future of newspapers is uncertain, it presents a compelling case for the necessity of long-form investigative reporting.