11.1 Types of Opinion Pieces: Editorials, Columns, and Reviews
3 min read•august 9, 2024
Opinion pieces are the heart of journalism's persuasive side. They come in various forms, each with its own purpose and style. From editorials that represent a publication's stance to columns that showcase individual perspectives, these writings shape public discourse.
Reviews, op-eds, and round out the opinion landscape. They offer critiques, expert viewpoints, and in-depth analysis. Understanding these different types helps readers navigate the world of opinion writing and appreciate its role in journalism.
Types of Opinion Pieces
Editorials and Columns
Top images from around the web for Editorials and Columns
Yellow journalism - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
_-_Photoplay_Editorial.jpg&w=640&q=75)
Editorial - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
The Nature of Public Opinion – American Government View original
Is this image relevant?
Yellow journalism - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Editorial - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Top images from around the web for Editorials and Columns
Yellow journalism - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Editorial - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
The Nature of Public Opinion – American Government View original
Is this image relevant?
Yellow journalism - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
Editorial - Wikipedia View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
- Editorials represent the official stance of a publication on specific issues
- Editorials often appear unsigned, reflecting the collective voice of the
- Columns express the personal views of individual writers
- Columns typically appear regularly and cover a specific topic or area of expertise
- Columnists build a loyal readership through their distinctive voice and perspective
Reviews and Op-eds
- Reviews evaluate and critique various forms of media, art, or products
- Reviews can cover books, movies, music, restaurants, technology, and more
- Op-eds (opposite the page) feature guest writers' opinions on current events
- Op-eds provide a platform for experts or notable figures to share their views
- Op-eds often present contrasting viewpoints to the publication's official stance
Commentary and Analysis
- Commentary pieces offer in-depth analysis of complex issues or events
- Commentary can be written by staff writers, experts, or guest contributors
- Commentary aims to provide context, interpretation, and insight beyond basic reporting
- Commentary pieces may incorporate elements of personal opinion and factual analysis
- Commentary helps readers understand the broader implications of news events
Authorship and Attribution
Bylines and Masthead
- Bylines identify the author of an article, typically appearing at the beginning
- Bylines give credit to the writer and establish accountability for the content
- Bylines may include the writer's title, expertise, or affiliation
- Masthead lists key staff members and their roles within the publication
- Masthead typically appears on the editorial page or in a prominent location
- Masthead includes editors, writers, and other important personnel
Pundits and Expert Contributors
- Pundits offer commentary and analysis on specific topics or current events
- Pundits often have specialized knowledge or experience in their field
- Pundits may appear in various media formats (print, television, online)
- Expert contributors provide insights based on their professional expertise
- Expert contributors may be academics, industry professionals, or public figures
- Publications often seek diverse perspectives from various pundits and experts
Evaluation and Analysis
Critique Methods
- Critiques involve systematic evaluation of ideas, arguments, or creative works
- Critiques assess strengths and weaknesses of the subject matter
- Critiques often follow a structured format (summary, analysis, evaluation)
- Critiques may consider multiple aspects (content, style, effectiveness)
- Effective critiques balance objectivity with informed opinion
Review Techniques
- Reviews provide assessments of products, performances, or experiences
- Reviews often include a rating system (stars, points, grades) for quick evaluation
- Reviews consider various criteria specific to the subject (plot, acting, flavor)
- Reviews aim to help readers make informed decisions about consumption or purchases
- Reviewers strive for objectivity while acknowledging personal preferences
- Reviews may compare the subject to similar works or established standards in the field
Key Terms to Review (21)
Anecdotes: Anecdotes are short, interesting, or amusing stories about real incidents or people, often used to illustrate a point or add a personal touch to a narrative. They serve to engage readers and create emotional connections, making the content more relatable and memorable. In opinion pieces, anecdotes can effectively support arguments and provide concrete examples that enhance the writer's message.
Bias: Bias refers to a tendency or inclination that prevents impartial judgment, often resulting in favoritism or prejudice toward a particular perspective, group, or idea. It manifests in various forms within news reporting, opinion pieces, and the representation of facts, shaping how information is perceived and understood by audiences. Recognizing bias is crucial for evaluating sources, understanding opinion formats, and balancing personal views with objective reporting.
Column: A column is a recurring piece or article in a publication where a writer expresses their personal opinions, insights, or commentary on various subjects. Columns often reflect the author's unique perspective and voice, allowing for a more informal and engaging approach compared to traditional news reporting. They can cover a range of topics, from politics to culture, and are typically written by established journalists or experts in their fields.
Columnist perspective: A columnist perspective refers to the unique viewpoint and opinion that a columnist presents in their writing, shaped by their experiences, beliefs, and values. This perspective is crucial as it allows columnists to offer analysis, commentary, or personal insights on various issues, distinguishing their work from standard reporting. The columnist's voice often engages readers through a blend of personal narrative and informed opinion, which can provoke thought and encourage discussion.
Commentary: Commentary refers to a type of opinion piece that provides personal views, insights, or analysis on a particular issue or event, often drawing on the writer's experiences and observations. It serves to engage readers by offering thoughtful perspectives, contributing to public discourse and encouraging critical thinking about current affairs.
Cultural critique: Cultural critique is an analytical approach that examines cultural practices, norms, and values in society, often highlighting underlying power structures and social issues. It encourages critical thinking about how culture shapes and reflects identity, politics, and ideology, thus serving as a tool for social change. This perspective is essential in various forms of opinion writing, including editorials, columns, and reviews, where authors express their views on societal issues through a critical lens.
Editorial: An editorial is a type of opinion piece that represents the official stance or viewpoint of a publication on a specific issue, event, or topic. Editorials aim to inform, persuade, and stimulate discussion among readers, and they often include strong arguments supported by evidence. They are typically written by a team of editors or the editorial board and are distinct from personal columns or reviews, which may reflect individual perspectives.
Editorial Board: An editorial board is a group of individuals, typically consisting of editors and influential staff members, responsible for overseeing the editorial direction and content of a publication. They play a crucial role in shaping the editorial policy, making decisions on what issues to cover, and approving the opinion pieces that reflect the publication’s stance. Their insights help ensure that the publication maintains its integrity and aligns with its mission, particularly in the context of opinion pieces like editorials, columns, and reviews.
General public: The general public refers to the broad, collective audience that is not specialized or limited to a particular group, often encompassing diverse opinions and perspectives. This term is essential in understanding how various opinion pieces like editorials, columns, and reviews resonate with a wider audience, influencing public discourse and perceptions on significant issues.
Lead: In journalism, a lead is the opening sentence or paragraph of a news story that provides the most essential information and hooks the reader's attention. It sets the tone for the rest of the article and is crafted to convey the main point quickly, enticing readers to continue engaging with the content.
Maureen Dowd: Maureen Dowd is a prominent American journalist and author, known for her incisive political commentary and thought-provoking columns in The New York Times. Her work often combines sharp wit with a critical examination of political figures, making her a significant voice in the realm of opinion pieces, particularly in columns that reflect on current events and societal issues.
News event response: News event response refers to the manner in which media outlets and journalists react to significant happenings, shaping public perception through coverage, analysis, and commentary. This term encompasses the various ways in which opinion pieces—such as editorials, columns, and reviews—are crafted to address current events, offering insights, critiques, and perspectives that influence audience understanding and engagement.
Niche readership: Niche readership refers to a specific segment of the audience that shares common interests or characteristics and consumes specialized content tailored to those interests. This concept is crucial in understanding how different types of opinion pieces, like editorials, columns, and reviews, target specific groups of readers with particular preferences or beliefs, allowing for more meaningful engagement and dialogue.
Op-ed: An op-ed, short for 'opposite the editorial page,' is a type of opinion piece that expresses the personal views of an author on a particular issue, separate from the newspaper's official editorial stance. Op-eds typically aim to provoke thought and engage readers in a dialogue about relevant societal topics, often providing analysis or commentary that reflects the author's expertise or perspective. This format is distinct from other opinion pieces like editorials and columns as it is usually written by outside contributors rather than staff writers.
Paul Krugman: Paul Krugman is an influential American economist and Nobel laureate known for his work in international economics, trade theory, and macroeconomics. He is also a prominent columnist and commentator whose opinion pieces often reflect his views on economic policy, social issues, and political matters, providing readers with insights into complex economic concepts through accessible language.
Personal voice: Personal voice refers to the unique style and perspective that a writer brings to their work, characterized by their individual tone, word choice, and point of view. This distinct voice is essential in opinion pieces, as it helps engage readers and makes the writing relatable and authentic. An effective personal voice can set apart editorials, columns, and reviews, allowing writers to express their opinions clearly while also showcasing their personality.
Persuasive writing: Persuasive writing is a form of writing that aims to convince the reader to accept a particular point of view or take a specific action. It employs logical reasoning, emotional appeals, and strong evidence to sway the audience's beliefs or behaviors. This style is crucial in opinion pieces, where the goal is often to express a viewpoint that influences public opinion or incites action.
Review: A review is a critical evaluation of a creative work, such as books, films, or performances, focusing on its strengths and weaknesses. It aims to inform and guide readers about the quality and impact of the work, often incorporating personal opinions and insights. Reviews play an important role in helping audiences make informed decisions and spark discussions about the subject matter.
Rhetorical devices: Rhetorical devices are techniques used by writers and speakers to convey ideas more effectively, persuade audiences, or evoke emotions. These devices enhance the overall impact of a piece, making arguments more compelling and memorable. In opinion pieces like editorials, columns, and reviews, the strategic use of rhetorical devices can shape reader perceptions and influence public discourse.
Thesis statement: A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of a piece of writing, usually presented in one or two sentences. It serves as a roadmap for both the writer and the reader, guiding the direction of the text and providing a clear argument or perspective. The thesis statement is essential in opinion pieces and persuasive writing, as it establishes the writer's stance and helps to frame the discussion that follows.
Transparency: Transparency in journalism refers to the practice of being open and clear about the methods, sources, and processes involved in news reporting. This concept fosters trust between journalists and their audience by ensuring that information is accessible and understandable.