The division has a depth and breadth of journalistic experience that is renowned within the industry. This covers every aspect of journalism as it is practised currently.

After long and detailed preparation this experience has been converted into an academic project that has found its initial expression in the publication of a book on the challenges facing journalism in the advanced democracies. This has been produced in collaboration with some of the world’s leading figures in media research. It is intended that this will be the stimulus both for a continuing programme of papers and books on the challenges facing journalism and for expanding the department’s existing consultancy work within the industry. A second book in this field is already in preparation.

The first book, The Future of Journalism in the Advanced Democracies, published by Ashgate in January 2007, has drawn praise from some prominent figures in the field of journalism. The editor of Journalism Studies, Professor Bob Franklin of Cardiff University said: “This book poses significant and timely questions about the complex and shifting relationships between journalists and politicians in modern democracies. The answers provided by the distinguished group of contributing scholars and journalists are original, illuminating and thought provoking. This is a “must-have” book for students of journalism and comparative political communication.

The secretary of the Broadcast Journalism Training Council (BJTC) Jim Latham described the book as “fascinating.”

He said: “At a time when the role of journalists and journalism is itself on the news agenda, when convergence, market mutation and huge developments in technology raise vital questions about the future, this study is a primer for basic change.”

In the opening section the book investigates the key issues facing twenty-first century journalism; while in section two its authors offer case studies from the UK media, discussing national newspapers; regional and local newspapers, both paid for and free; terrestrial, satellite and cable television news; radio news and online journalism. These detailed case-studies provide the basis for a comparison with the news media of a variety of other key advanced democracies: namely the USA, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. Drawing on this evidence, the authors map out possible future developments, paying attention to their likely global impact.

The book’s conclusions will provide the groundwork for continuing debate amongst journalists, scholars and policy-makers concerned about the place of journalism in invigorating political processes and democratic functions. The recommended retail price of the paperback edition of the book from 15 January 2007 is £19.95, while the hardback edition will retail at £60.

Enquiries from potential collaborators and clients are welcomed and should, in the first instance, be directed to the Research Coordinator for the Journalism Subject, Dr. Peter Anderson. Email: pjanderson1@uclan.ac.uk or telephone 01772 894744.

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