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Monocle editor argues journalists must prove their worth in AI era

opinion-review · 2026-06-15

Josh Fehnert, editor of Monocle, argues that AI will not replace journalists who excel at human-centric skills like interviewing, interpretation, and storytelling. He acknowledges AI's utility for research and transcription but stresses that humans must remain accountable for output. Fehnert criticizes journalists for focusing on existential fears rather than demonstrating their unique value. He advocates for quality over quantity in information and reaffirms Monocle's commitment to human-produced content.

Key facts

  • Josh Fehnert is Monocle's editor.
  • Monocle publishes only work written, photographed, or illustrated by humans.
  • Fehnert believes AI can assist with research, transcription, data analysis, and medical scans.
  • He argues journalists must be responsible for the answers AI helps produce.
  • The article criticizes journalists for focusing on fears rather than proving relevance.
  • Fehnert emphasizes quality and trustworthiness of information over quantity.
  • The piece was published on Monocle's website.
  • The article includes an image credited to Bromberger Hoover Photography/Getty Images.

Entities

Institutions

  • Monocle

Sources