Blogs vs. MSM

An article in the NYTimes yesterday commented on Blogs' role in media, as opposed to MSM, or Main Stream Media. The article extensively referenced Dave Sifry—in particular referenceing the State of the Blogosphere. The NYTimes article read as pretty defensive, sounding like [not to sensationalize the issue] a stalwart reaffirmation of the need for Big Media [Shit, now I really sound sensationalist]. The author, Dan Mitchel relegated blogs to niche, referential journalism—citing that only a minority provide real and original reporting.

This seems to be a commont trend with the established Entertainment entities establishing their value and seperation from independant authors. I'm curious to see how long this top down system will remain in place, drawing clear parrallels to industrial development.

Currently an issue to note in the blogosphere, elite bloggers are becoming more authoritative. Twilight of the Blogs, an article from Feb 16 at Slate outlines some of these issues.

Would someone let me know when the paradigm shift is coming?

UPDATE: Just read a pro-blog article by journalist Bill Densmore. The article features former NYTimes editor Daniel Okrent. Worth checking out.