How to focus? Attention deficit in the digital age and solutions

The article explores the growing issue of attention deficit in the digital age, particularly among media professionals. It references Johann Hari's work 'Stolen Focus' and includes insights from experts like Merve Çebi, Ezgi Özkan, and Öykü Koç Şener. The discussion highlights the impact of digital devices on attention spans, with statistics showing frequent phone usage and multitasking. Experts suggest solutions such as reducing multitasking, managing notifications, and practicing mindfulness to improve focus. Personal experiences from journalist Ilgaz Gökırmaklı and digital content creator Berzah Kaya illustrate the challenges and strategies for maintaining concentration in a digital world.

TikTok vs. Journalism

The article explores the growing influence of TikTok in journalism, highlighting its role in spreading news and human stories on global issues like Black Lives Matter and the Ukraine war. Despite its popularity, concerns about misinformation and the platform's Chinese origins persist. The Reuters Institute's 2022 Digital News Report reveals that nearly half of leading news publishers now regularly post on TikTok, though adoption varies globally. The article discusses the challenges and opportunities for journalists using TikTok, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations and adaptation to new media trends. Predictions about TikTok's future in journalism suggest a need for increased production value and resources.

The Uncertain Future of TikTok

TikTok, a major social media platform, faces significant geopolitical challenges, particularly from the US government, which is considering banning the app due to data privacy concerns and its Chinese ownership. Despite its popularity and growth, TikTok's future is uncertain, hinging on the evolving relationship between China and Western countries. Investigations have revealed ByteDance's potential misuse of TikTok for surveillance, exacerbating the platform's precarious position.

Incubators and Technoparks: What Are They and What Are Their Advantages?

The article discusses the role and benefits of incubators and technoparks for entrepreneurs, particularly in the media and technology sectors. Incubators provide support for early-stage startups through mentorship, office space, and networking opportunities, helping them overcome initial challenges and grow. Technoparks, on the other hand, focus on technology firms and offer various tax incentives and support for research and development. The article emphasizes the importance of leveraging these resources for business growth and innovation, highlighting the success and support provided by organizations like NewsLabTurkey and the transformative impact of Silicon Valley's university-industry collaboration model.

The Dynamics of Iranian Media: Media as a Tool of Suppression

Iran, a neighboring country, has undergone significant changes since the 1979 Islamic revolution, leading to severe restrictions on fundamental freedoms. The death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, after being detained by the Morality Police for not adhering to hijab rules, sparked widespread protests against the mandatory hijab and broader government oppression. The protests have resulted in numerous deaths and arrests, including journalists. Iran ranks among the worst countries for press freedom, with state-controlled media often used to suppress dissent. Independent media is not legally allowed within Iran, leading many to rely on international and social media for information. The Iranian government frequently blocks internet access and threatens journalists, even those abroad. Corruption is rampant, with journalists who expose it often facing severe penalties. The ongoing protests are seen as a potential revolution, with calls for international support for the Iranian people's fight for human rights.

NewsLabTurkey 2022 Almanak

The NewsLabTurkey 2022 Almanak reviews significant events in the media and journalism world throughout the year. Key highlights include acquisitions like The New York Times purchasing The Athletic, the rise of NFTs in journalism, and the launch of Disney Plus in Turkey. The year also saw significant social media developments, including Twitter's controversial changes under Elon Musk and YouTube's new features inspired by TikTok. Protests in Iran following the death of Jîna Mahsa Amini and the subsequent crackdown on journalists were notable. The publication also covered the establishment of the Disinformation Combat Center in Turkey and the controversial new social media law. The almanac reflects on the deaths of prominent journalists and the ongoing challenges faced by the media industry.

Micro-payments are on the agenda again

The article discusses the resurgence of micro-payment models in journalism, particularly through the platform Post.News. It highlights the technical and ethical challenges of implementing micro-payments, such as the need for intermediaries and the potential for exploitative practices. The article also covers various media-related topics, including innovative projects by the New York Times and Washington Post, the impact of China's media censorship, and the rise of young professionals in the media industry. Additionally, it mentions significant events like the closure of El Periodico in Guatemala due to government pressure and legal actions involving the Knight Institute and NSO Group.

What does the Reuters report say for European countries?

The podcast episode discusses the findings of the Reuters Institute's 2022 Digital Journalism Report, focusing on media trust and consumption habits in six European countries: Germany, Netherlands, Poland, France, UK, and Spain. Key points include varying levels of trust in media, with Germany showing a significant decline in trust since 2015, while the Netherlands has seen an increase. France and the UK exhibit low trust levels, with France ranking 41st out of 46 countries. The episode also highlights the preferred news sources in these countries, with online platforms and social media gaining prominence. Additionally, the discussion covers digital subscriptions, with notable figures for Le Monde, MediaPart, and Le Figaro in France.

Anti-library: How many of the books you bought have you read?

The concept of 'anti-library,' introduced by Nassim Nicholas Taleb, refers to a collection of unread books, highlighting the value of unread knowledge. The article explores related concepts like 'tsundoku' and 'bibliomania,' discussing the cultural and intellectual significance of personal libraries. Interviews with journalist Yenal Bilgici and cinema writer Melikşah Altuntaş reveal their perspectives on book collecting and reading habits, emphasizing the importance of intellectual curiosity and the role of books in journalism. The discussion underscores the evolving relationship between individuals and their personal libraries, reflecting broader cultural attitudes towards reading and knowledge acquisition.

Dynamics of the French Media: Not as Polarized as the US but Controlled by 11 Billionaires

Journalism is crucial for navigating a complex world and holding power accountable. The digital transformation of media has significantly impacted journalism practices globally, including in France. Héléna Berkaoui, a journalist, discusses the challenges faced by French journalists, including job insecurity and media ownership concentration. Eleven billionaires control a significant portion of French media, posing a threat to editorial independence. Despite these challenges, France's media landscape is less polarized than the US, with a central media core maintaining connections across ideological lines. Efforts by the left-wing party Boyun Eğmeyen Fransa aim to address media ownership concentration.