Statement of Purpose

Flak Magazine is a group of writers, editors and web designers committed to the common goal of reviewing and criticizing art and media and the contexts in which they are produced. Flak believes that mainstream criticism and opinion journalism all too often take a back seat to advertorial boosterism and ideological pandering; in response, it is dedicated to the following:

1. Criticism. Flak believes that in an information-driven world, the evaluation of ideas becomes supremely important. Therefore, it provides thoughtful, serious criticism of media and entertainment, as well as the social and political context in which they are produced. Furthermore, convinced that the good often exists outside the confines of the popular, Flak primarily reviews "independent" media, which is often passed over or tokenized by the mainstream.

2. Non-commercialism. Flak is a non-commercial, completely staff-supported enterprise. Its writers and editors work on a voluntary basis. While Flak is not completely averse to the idea of advertising, it refuses to allow advertising to become the driving force behind its existence. Those who do advertise with it must understand that the promotion of their products will always take a back seat to the site's content.

3. An open enterprise. It believes that its mission is enhanced by the participation of outside writers. Therefore, Flak eagerly accepts unsolicited submissions for any of its sections.

4. Quality. While Flak is an open enterprise, it maintains high standards. Flak's content is balanced, intelligent, and witty, and it requires that its writers be the same.

5. Community. Flak is committed to fostering a community of like-minded publications, and is always interested in collaboration and networking with other publications.

Read it and weep, suckas.