The book emphasizes the social and cultural value of reportage by highlighting its role in shaping human consciousness and providing a sense of connection beyond immediate surroundings. Reportage, as a successor to religion, offers reassurance, a release from routine, and a daily illusion of communication with a greater reality. It also fosters empathy and education, challenging readers to confront the real and inhumane aspects of human existence.
Historically, reportage has been undervalued by intellectuals and literary institutions due to several reasons. Firstly, there's a resentment towards the masses, who are seen as the audience for reportage. This leads to the perception of reportage as 'vulgar' compared to 'high' culture. Secondly, there's a desire to promote imagination over reality, with the belief that imaginative works possess inherent spiritual value and a connection to higher truths. This reflects a residue of magical thinking, with an emphasis on purity and a belief in inspiration. Lastly, the perceived lack of 'willing suspension of disbelief' in reportage, compared to imaginative literature, contributes to its undervaluation.