Religious Literacy - Journalism's Blind Spot

Explore the critical issue of religious literacy in journalism through this 54-minute conference talk from The Aspen Institute. Delve into the perspectives of a veteran DC bureau chief and senior reporter as they discuss religion's surprising importance to American readers and the media's frequent failure to accurately cover religious and ideological diversity. Examine why many Americans tend to be more religious than the journalists who report on national affairs. Consider the implications of New York Times executive editor Dean Baquet's 2016 statement that major media outlets struggle to understand religion. Gain insights from two experienced journalists as they reflect on their own learnings and discuss potential solutions to improve religious coverage in an era of declining institutional religion. Honor the event's namesake while gaining a deeper understanding of this crucial aspect of American life and its representation in the media.