Wishlist
Book Summary
Flat Earth News is Nick Davies' explosive investigation into the decline of journalistic standards in the UK media. Drawing on years of research, Davies exposes how profit-driven newsrooms, PR spin, and unchecked wire copy have created a culture of 'churnalism' where truth is routinely sacrificed for speed and cost. This award-winning book is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand how the news they consume is manufactured—and manipulated.
This book is not available
Store  |
Condition |
Deals & Coupons | Price |
Est. Shipping |
Total |
Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sorry we could not find any result for “9780099512684” | ||||||
About Flat Earth News: An Award-winning...
In Flat Earth News, award-winning investigative journalist Nick Davies delivers a damning indictment of the modern news industry. Based on a two-year study of thousands of news stories, Davies reveals how corporate cost-cutting, 24-hour news cycles, and reliance on PR agencies and wire services have led to a phenomenon he calls 'churnalism'—the mass production of unchecked, often inaccurate news. He exposes how stories are fabricated, facts are distorted, and critical journalism is replaced by copy-paste reporting. From the Iraq War to the financial crisis, Davies shows how this systemic failure has real-world consequences for democracy. Part exposé, part call to action, this book is a landmark critique of media integrity and a rallying cry for responsible journalism.
Who should read Flat Earth News: An Award-winning...?
This book is essential for journalism students, media professionals, and anyone concerned about the state of democracy. It will resonate with readers who want to understand how news is produced, why misinformation spreads, and how to become more critical media consumers. Activists, political junkies, and fans of investigative journalism will also find it invaluable. If you've ever questioned the credibility of headlines or wondered why certain stories dominate the news, this book provides the answers.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exposes systemic flaws in modern journalism with hard evidence
- ✓ Written by an award-winning investigative journalist with deep expertise
- ✓ Highly readable and engaging despite the serious subject matter
- ✓ Provides practical insights for becoming a more critical news consumer
- ✓ Includes compelling case studies and real-world examples
Cons
- ✗ Focuses primarily on the UK media landscape, which may limit relevance for some readers
- ✗ Can be depressing and cynical in tone
- ✗ Some examples may feel dated to readers familiar with recent media developments
- ✗ Lacks a detailed roadmap for systemic reform
- ✗ Assumes some prior knowledge of journalism practices
Similar books
Frequently asked questions
What is 'churnalism'?
Churnalism is a term coined by Nick Davies to describe the practice of journalists repackaging press releases, wire copy, and PR material as original reporting, often without verification.
Is this book only about British media?
While it focuses on the UK, the underlying issues—corporate influence, 24-hour news cycles, and the decline of investigative reporting—are relevant to media worldwide.
Does the book offer solutions?
Davies primarily diagnoses the problem, but he does suggest reforms such as stronger media regulation, investment in investigative journalism, and greater transparency.
Is Flat Earth News suitable for academic study?
Yes, it is widely used in journalism and media studies courses and provides a well-researched critique of contemporary news production.
How does this book relate to fake news?
Davies' analysis predates the term 'fake news' but provides crucial context for understanding how misinformation and low-quality journalism spread through modern media systems.
At Windsorbooks, we compare prices from trusted sellers so you can buy, rent, or sell textbooks at the best total price — shipping included.
As an Amazon Associate, Windsorbooks.com may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases.