There has been a deluge of responses to the Chartered Institute of Journalists warning about encouraging citizen-journalists in the wake of the London bombings. It's prompted quite a debate about the nature or citizen-journalism and what is being achieved.
Jeff Jarvis called it a 'hissy fit' and seeing the motive as protectionist of existing jobs in journalism.
A good discussion is to be found here about ditching the term altogether - and instead thinking about citizen storytellers.
Jack Schofield of the Guardian refers to citizen journalism as 'being dead' - linking to Vincent Maher, who makes a convincing argument for the established 4th estate based on what he calls "3 E's" - Ethics, Economics and Epistemology (knowledge, its foundation and validity).
All the reactions illustrate the debate, and the varying role of citizen journalists, and varying response of big media.
What's also of interest is the line that the Chartered Institute of Journalists were actually pedalling. Their main concern was that ordinary citizens may be encouraged to rush towards catastrophes, disasters or riots etc. I spoke to them and clarified the issue - in fact as part of my day job I set up a discussion on BBC Radio 4 on the issue - click here to listen again (you'll need Real Player). I think the concerns that the CIoJ raised were valied, though they were a little naive in their approach - and yes they were doing it on behalf of their members - so there was an element of protectionism there.
I also have to apologise to Dan Gillmor - I'd set up an interview with him, but because of the time difference and him flying between states, missed our agreed time. He was very understanding about it!
Matt
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