This book explores how digital acceleration and algorithmic mediation have transformed the temporal structure of modern journalism. It considers journalism to be a temporal institution that must balance speed with reflection and automation with human interpretation. Drawing on sociological theories, the book examines practices such as slow journalism and local storytelling, which seek to resist the culture of immediacy. Through qualitative research and case studies, the book puts forward the “downbeat” as a metaphor for reclaiming journalistic time — an alternative rhythm through which depth, resonance and ethical awareness can once again define the meaning and public value of news in the digital age.
Giacomo Buoncompagni (PhD) is a tenure-track assistant professor in Sociology of Culture and Communication at University of Macerata, Italy. He teaches Sociology of Communication and Digital Media and Theory of Digital Journalism. His research topics include local and digital journalism, media and security, communicative skills, and disaster communication.