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September 1, 2005

Blogging Hurricane Katrina

Blogging, short for "web logging," allows anyone with an Internet connection and the right software the ability to broadcast information. As a result, blogs are becoming an important source of information, particularly in times of crisis. The immediacy of the information makes for an engaging, unfiltered and compelling narrative. But since the typical blogger has no formal training in journalism, fact checking, balance, conciseness and other traits of traditional journalism are, at best, inconsistent.

For a fascinating example of how blogging can provide first-hand reports of an emerging situation, take a look at the Michael Barnett's Interdictor blog, which relates his ongoing experiences in an office building in downtown New Orleans. His comments, and those of visitors to the site, are emotionally charged and contain some bad language. Please exercise discretion in visiting this site. Wired News has posted a story about Mr. Barnett's blog.

In response to the blogging phenomenon, major news outlets have created blogs as well. Here are some examples:

• Steve Harrigan's blog from FoxNews
• Brian Williams' blog from MSNBC

To find other blogs regarding Hurricane Katrina, search for Google using the terms "Katrina blog," or visit The Truth Laid Bear's special report on Katrina, which lists hundreds of blogs providing coverage.

Note: The Hinsdale Public Library does not endorse the views contained within any of the blogs listed on this page.
[MBO]

Posted by hinsdalereference at September 1, 2005 10:22 AM