Central to post modern thought is the idea that it is always necessary to inquire, reported third year journalism student, Kadey McIntosh.
McIntosh, reporting on truth and objectivity, focused on the idea that respect for the truth is fundamental for journalists.
"However, in the post modern era there are many perspective on what is true, so whose truth are journalists going to tell?" asked McIntosh.
McIntosh used citizen journalism to exemplify the need for the truth to always be tested.
Citizen journalists are not required to abide by a code of ethics so it is questionable as to whether they can be truly objective.
Notorious blogger, Matt Drudge, was a citizen journalist who has since admitted that some of stories may not have been true.
McIntosh argued that Drudge was not a journalist, but that he practice a form of journalism.
"Drudge's practice therefore dishonoured professional journalism," said McIntosh.
To further emphasise the role of inquiry for journalists, McIntosh referred to 'infotainment', a product of the post modern era which dominates the airwaves today.
She said infotainment was a product of one of the top news values, conflict, and referred to the coverage of celebrity deaths to display this value.
"Stories of conflict sell because readers relish in them," said McIntosh.
On the day that Michael Jackson died it was falsely reported by Nine's Richard Wilkins that actor Jeff Goldblum had also passed away.
By using this example, McIntosh was able to demonstrate one of many instances where misinformation had occurred in infotainment news.
McIntosh ended the presentation by leaving the audience to consider whether or not all has been lost or if there are journalists who do strive for truth and objectivity.
The next presenter focused on the blurring lines between public relations and journalism.
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