RIP, MSM

Jeff Jarvis doesn't like the term "mainstream media", as it inherently denounces blogging, podcasting, and the like. It might label them as an attempt to illegitimize the efforts of those who use them. I tend to think the opposite: when referring to "new media" I think it dates and objectifies the traditional types in print, radio and TV.

Long ago, I tried to argue that we shouldn’t call big media “mainstream media” because that would be conceding that blogs aren’t mainstream. I got nowhere...it’s time to proudly take our place in the mainstream. But to do that, we first need to stop implying that we’re not with that stupid “MSM” monicker.

I agree with Ieff...I say with new forms of communications everyone involved is part of the media. So let's classify those involved with either/both in terms of their platform, not catty labeling that dates or implies a certain level of quality associated with them.