Confusing Roles,Uncertain Responsibilities

Abstract

Conceptualizing journalism as a paradigm, we analyze 193 journalistic texts responding to Juan Williams’ 2010 dismissal from NPR for comments made on Fox News. We found three dominant themes. First, journalists appeared unsure of Williams’ role within the journalistic paradigm, indicative of the role confusion that characterizes contemporary journalism. Second, journalists invoked the objectivity norm despite its incongruity with the case, evidence of a paradigm grasping for certainties at a time of industry upheaval. Finally, journalists used Williams as a proxy to engage the public in a dialogue on the responsibilities of the commentator.