The Algorithms Behind the Headlines

With the introduction of machine-written news, the automation of journalism has entered a new phase. Algorithms can now automatically generate news stories on the basis of statistical information and a set of stock phrases, without interference from human journalists. This paper analyses reactions to the launch of a network of machine-written sport websites to see how this new technology forces journalists to re-examine their own skills. In their response to these technological developments, journalists define their profession by the tasks that are fulfilled rather than the persons who possess the skills and knowledge to fulfil them. Responding to automated news content, journalists highlight analytical skills, personality, creativity and the ability to write linguistically complex sentences as important skills defining journalism, rather than factuality, objectivity, simplification and speed. Journalists see “robot journalism” as an opportunity to make journalism more human. When routine tasks can be automated, journalists will have more time for in-depth reporting. This view is discussed in the light of the commercialization of news and of previous studies on the impact of technological developments on journalistic labour.