AP Style Changes

"He who rejects change is the architect of decay. The only human institution which rejects progress is the cemetery." -Harold Wilson

I chose to begin with this quote because it reflects my views on change. Our culture is based upon the changes we make, so it makes sense that newspapers and journalistic styles change over time to adapt to our ever-changing culture.

Since the invention of the wheel, man has used change as a way to improve things. Whether these changes make our lives better or easier, we must learn to accept them so we can grow.

AP style has changed with the times, announcing that all first references to presidents include their first and last names. This is an example of change making life easier. By using this universal style, people everywhere will know the correct way to refer to world leaders. It may also make these references clearer, as some leaders have similar names.

Another example of a style change occurred when "back yard" became "backyard" in all uses. If a majority of people can agree on one way to write a particular phrase, then why not make writing easier?

Before jumping ahead and changing the entire English language, there are a few things that must be taken into consideration. Is it necessary to change the word in question? If a majority of people are confused about the spelling, usage, or meaning of that word, then yes, a change is justified. Do people already use a word in a particular way--a way that is not referenced in journalistic style? If the answer is yes, then the style should be altered to fit in with popular belief of how the word should be used.

I look at these changes as an opportunity to have a uniform writing style and lessen confusion when using particular words. I also see these changes as a way that we can continue to broaden journalistic writing to fit in with popular belief.

Although adapting to new styles may be confusing initially, learning to change with the times is an invaluable lesson--not only in journalism, but in day-to-day life.