By Mostafa Sayyadi & Michael J. Provitera
Business journalism is important to the vibrance of society and must be held at the helm of public reporting on issues that matter to people that care. Democracy across the globe is our intent with this opinion because without democracy we have conflict. Democracy is played out in the media by specifying the roles of business journalism to achieve an objective to create the paradigm of free speech coupled with true facts. Breaking the paradigm of democracy includes a distinct set of concepts that constitute legitimate contributions to social communication and development.
Business journalism provides guidance and inspiration using eight factors to engage citizens for success in achieving a higher level of democracy in a society. The critical role of business journalism in each factor emphasizes what, at minimum, needs to be conveyed by business journalists. For example, business journalism helps citizens reach goals and objectives that they may not consider otherwise, and, most importantly, knowledge and coverage of pertinent content helps people set meaningful goals in an engaging and effective manner. The factors we propose below provide a win-win scenario of democracy, sustainability, and citizen satisfaction. The goal here, is to develop- and -build democracy, inspire citizens, and increase their satisfaction with their society so that they can become more engaged and productive. Eight factors that contribute to democracy success and citizen engagement are:
Political Equality
Business journalism offers a diverse pool of practical information on public issues. This practical information inspires citizens to be responsive and engaged in voting, running for office, or speaking on public issues. The positive effect of this factor is realized when the citizens feel empowered and are acting as agents of change for themselves, their significant others, and the communities in which they live.
Political Liberties
Leading people, speaking up, and being a role model as an informal leader is the intention of the business journalists. Alleviating anxiety for speaking freely and winning the hearts and minds of citizens that vote without intimidation.
Personal Liberties
Business journalism helps citizens feel the freedom of being a part of society and taking responsibility with free expression of personal opinions for the good of world stage.
Being Informed and Involved
Business journalism requires that information and communication shape societies for the better good. Involving every voice of every citizen as assessors of the status-quo to have a better-informed judgement when making suggestions for improvement in society at large.
Respect
Business journalism attempts to satisfy the desires of each citizen. Especially those that may lack a sense of respect towards the rights of others. Creating the best combination of information and common interest to instill a sense of respect all humanity.
Common Good
Business journalism is particularly effective in situations where citizens are lacking the drive, the wherewithal, and the to work on the common good of society to stimulate enthusiasm in a positive way.
Human Dignity
Business journalism sets the environment for protecting, upholding, and understanding the dignity of all citizens. Helping people to perform their personal best, even if it means refraining from hurtful speech or actions. Providing citizens, from all nations, with a clear and concise justification of respect toward all opinions with empathy.
Rule of Law
Business journalism clarifies the need for the golden rule, what one wants for oneself should be what one wants for society at large. Helping all citizens to be engaged to not only learn the rules of common law but also encourage them to implement these laws in their daily lives. Focusing more on the platinum rule that states that we should treat others the way they want to be treated.
In summary, business journalism is responsible in being a facilitator of knowledge and information that provides a common voice for democracy. With democracy, at its best, citizens may accomplish the eight factors noted above with effectiveness and efficiency. Business journalism’s role, therefore, is to assist citizens and encourage them to align with democracy. Thus, providing the support needed to ensure that each individual voice is heard, and personal aspirations are adhered to, for the common good of society at large. Satisfying each citizen’s desire to become a facilitator of change with the knowledge and information as it transpires, in real time, to be more effective at everything they touch. As an inspirer to make the world a safer and better place, the business journalist, builds equity, inclusion, and a voice of solidarity to people worldwide.
