The Conversation Canada and Journalistic Boundaries: A Case Study in the Challenges of Defining Journalism

Background: The Conversation Canada, a platform blending “journalistic flair” with “academic rigour,” often sees its articles republished by major news outlets. However, it does not meet government definitions of a journalistic organization, and only half of surveyed contributing academics consider their work journalism.

Analysis: Using The Conversation Canada as a case study, this research explores the challenges of defining journalism, who controls these definitions, and the consequences of exclusion, such as ineligibility for government funding and restricted public discourse.

Conclusions and implications: Rigid journalism definitions risk excluding hybrid platforms like The Conversation Canada, limiting innovation and diverse voices in public discourse.