Leading the Way to Better News: The Role of Leadership in a World Where Most of the “Powers That Be” Became the “Powers That Were”
Citation
Cowan, Geoffrey. "Leading the Way to Better News: The Role of Leadership in a World Where Most of the 'Powers That Be' Became the 'Powers That Were.'" Shorenstein Center Discussion Paper Series 2008.D-44, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, 2008.Abstract
During the past several years, as traditional news operations have faced sharp declines in circulation, advertising, viewership, and audiences, and as they have begun to make a seemingly unrelenting series of cuts in the newsroom budgets, scholars and professionals have been seeking formulas or models designed to reverse the trend. During those same years, many of the major news organizations that dominated the landscape a generation ago, those that David Halberstam called “The Powers That Be,” have lost their leadership role and been absorbed by other companies. This paper argues that while there is good reason to worry about the decline in what might be called “boots-on-the-ground” journalism, there are reasons to be hopeful. While most of those concerned with the topic have urged structural changes in ownership, this paper argues that the key is leadership. To understand the demands on leaders, it is essential to understand which of three motives is most important to the publication’s owners: profits, influence, or personal prestige. Each motive presents distinct challenges and opportunities. Looking at the fate of a number of large media organizations over the past decade, the paper argues that the most important model for success is outstanding leadership that combines a talent for business, entrepreneurship and innovation with a profound commitment to great journalism.Terms of Use
This article is made available under the terms and conditions applicable to Other Posted Material, as set forth at http://nrs.harvard.edu/urn-3:HUL.InstRepos:dash.current.terms-of-use#PassThruCitable link to this page
https://nrs.harvard.edu/URN-3:HUL.INSTREPOS:37376196
Collections
- HKS Shorenstein Center [175]
Contact administrator regarding this item (to report mistakes or request changes)