Scientific Journalism: old problems and new perspectives

Abstract

The paper takes the Scientific Journalism as a mediator social practice, concerning to a particular type of information and techniques that guide the news’ writing process. Discusses the problems of Scientific Journalism’s practice in the great press, unfolding them into five broad categories: a) the relationship between scientists and journalists; b) the content and origin of the journalist informations about Science and Technology, c) the sensationalism of the press d ) the training of journalists e) the mono speech of Scientific Journalism’s sources. Also shows new perspectives for Scientific Journalism as theoretical field and practice: expanded coverage area, more spaces for scientific news on media, careful layout for news about science and technology and the increasing of courses geared to the Scientific Journalism, especially post-graduations. Uses examples of Veja magazine and Zero Hora newspaper.