Hey Mama, Weer All Crazee Journalists Now: Scott Gant on Diane Rehm.

I caught Diane Rehm halfway through an interview with attorney Scott Gant who has just written a book called "We're All Journalists Now" about how the law should accommodate citizen journalists. From the Publisher's Weekly blurb:

Adamant that journalism is an activity undertaken, and not a profession practiced, Gant invites us all to join the ranks of the press. He argues that the media's role as a check on government depends on both the expanded category of journalist and the unfettered freedom to report without fear of government reproach. Using specific landmark constitutional law cases, as well as contemporary examples, including the Valerie Plame case and the San Francisco Chronicle reporters who uncovered the BALCO scandal, Gant makes the case that the health of our democracy requires a press clause that entitles journalists to constitutional protection from revealing their sources.

What I heard of the program, the guy is worth checking out. I probably don't go as far he does in advocating for press shields, but he makes a solid argument and one bloggers should keep track of.