Meaning: The quote by Will McDonough touches on two significant impacts of the internet on the field of journalism: the decline in newspaper circulation and the potential for increased plagiarism. These effects reflect the transformative nature of the digital age on traditional media and the ethical challenges it presents to the practice of journalism.

The first part of the quote addresses the decline in newspaper circulation in the United States due to the internet. This phenomenon is well-documented and has been a subject of concern for the newspaper industry for over two decades. As the internet became more accessible and prevalent, readers increasingly turned to online sources for news and information, leading to a steady decline in print newspaper subscriptions and readership. The convenience, immediacy, and breadth of online news sources have posed a significant challenge to the traditional business model of print newspapers. Many newspapers have struggled to adapt to the digital landscape, leading to financial difficulties and the consolidation or closure of numerous publications.

This shift in consumption patterns has had profound implications for the journalism industry. Newsrooms have had to reevaluate their strategies for reaching and engaging audiences in a digital environment, often emphasizing online platforms and social media to stay relevant. The economic impact of declining circulation has also affected the resources available for investigative reporting and in-depth journalism, potentially compromising the quality and diversity of news coverage.

The second part of the quote raises the issue of plagiarism in journalism resulting from the internet. The vast amount of information available online, combined with the pressure to produce content quickly and frequently, has created an environment where the temptation to plagiarize is heightened. The ease of accessing and replicating articles, reports, and other journalistic work online has raised concerns about the integrity of reporting and the proper attribution of sources.

Plagiarism undermines the fundamental principles of journalistic ethics, including accuracy, fairness, and transparency. It erodes trust in the media and can have serious professional and legal consequences for journalists and news organizations. The internet has made it both easier to plagiarize and easier to detect instances of plagiarism, as digital tools and databases enable the comparison of texts for originality.

To address these challenges, news organizations and individual journalists must prioritize ethical standards and integrity in their reporting. This includes rigorous fact-checking, thorough verification of sources, and clear attribution of information obtained from external sources. Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency within the industry can help combat the prevalence of plagiarism and uphold the credibility of journalism in the digital age.

In conclusion, Will McDonough's quote succinctly captures the dual impact of the internet on journalism in the United States. The decline in newspaper circulation and the potential for increased plagiarism are indicative of the profound changes brought about by digital technology in the media landscape. Navigating these challenges requires a commitment to ethical journalism, adaptation to new modes of audience engagement, and a steadfast dedication to the principles of accuracy and integrity in reporting.