THE HOPE AND CHALLENGES OF ISLAMIC JOURNALISM AMIDST THE COMMODIFICATION OF CELEBRITY GOSSIP AND INFOTAINMENT (A MEDIA AND CULTURAL PHILOSOPHY ANALYSIS)

Abstract

Islam strictly prohibits gossip (backbiting) because of its potential for harm. However, Imam al-Ghazali described some types of gossip that are permissible. Socially, gossip can even be considered a part of friendship. In the construction of infotainment, gossip has become a commodity where celebrities play a significant role in the industry. Religious leaders have not competed with celebrities to be part of the entertainment frame and are subject to the demands of an increasingly competitive market. Islamic journalism should uphold ethical journalism practices and pioneer the revival of wholesome and educational entertainment. Media and cultural philosophy aim to trace the roots of the tradition of gossip, celebrities, and infotainment, and promote the importance of critical thinking in addressing these phenomena