Hugo de Burgh

Hugo de Burgh a former journalist, is a British journalism theorist and academic. De Burgh is Professor of Journalism and Director of the China Media Centre at the University of Westminster. The centre was set up in January 2005 and is unique in Europe for its focus on studying the world's largest media system.

Background

Professor de Burgh has extensive experience teaching and writing about journalism in all its forms, especially that of China. His most recent book, "China: Friend or Foe?" was published in 2006. He has been editor, contributor and author of several books. His expertise ranges through international and investigative journalism, career training, print and television journalism and media practice.

Professor de Burgh speaks Chinese, English and Italian.

Thesis

His chief focus is the social function of journalism in its cultural context, saying ""It is often said that journalism is the first rough draft of history; by contrast, investigative journalism provides the first rough draft of legislation..." ["Investigative Journalism: Context and Practice", Hugo de Burgh ed, London and New York: Routledge, 2006]

Chinese journalism

Of special interest is the reappearance of investigative journalism in China since 1992. He said this was surprising because it showed that the western technique of investigative journalism could well apply in contrasting political cultures. [http://www.gbcc.org.uk/32article3.htm "Tiger Hunting at Newsprobe", by Hugo de Burgh]

It was a surprise to Western observers to find that the Chinese media (and investigative journalists in particular) are, despite limitations upon them, influencing public life today by introducing new and unconventional ideas, changing terms of reference, forcing the pace of reform, giving voice to concerns and calling attention to issues. [http://www.gbcc.org.uk/32article3.htm "Tiger Hunting at Newsprobe", by Hugo de Burgh]

References

*"Investigative Journalism: Context and Practice", Hugo de Burgh ed, London and New York: Routledge, 2000.
* [http://www.gbcc.org.uk/32article3.htm "Tiger Hunting at Newsprobe"] article by Hugo de Burgh

External links

* [http://www.wmin.ac.uk/mad/page-57 China Media Center] page at University of Westminster