In the hyper-sharing digital age of blogs, Twitter, and Facebook, everyone seems to have an opinion to express in a public forum. As social media platforms fade in and out, one medium that has withstood time as a credible and highly regarded source of opinion is the op-ed section.

Lion Calandra, editor of the op-ed page of the Daily News, and mediabistro.com Op-Ed Writing instructor, shares with us how op-eds have been influenced by the current economy and the future of op-eds within an unsteady media landscape.

Read our interview after the jump.

What are some recurring themes in op-ed writing?
Politics, education, the economy and religion are topics that are perennial and continue to provide opportunities for timely and topical essays. Still, it's also important to offer content that is off the beaten path; themes that introduce an idea to the reader that makes them stop and think about something new.

Have you noticed any changes in the topic or tone of op-ed writing as the economy changes?
I've seen more humor-driven op-eds pass my way. There are many sober analyses on the economy, of course, but there are many writers offering a light-hearted perspective about being broke or looking for a job.

What role does op-ed writing play in influencing public opinion?
A good op-ed can sure get a dialogue started. While many people think they know how they feel about a certain topic, a compelling opinions essay can make them re-think their position.

Do op-ed pieces have any influence over government?
Absolutely. There are several op-ed pieces that have played an important role in policy. I'd speak of them here, but I'd rather save that discussion for class.

Do you think there are too many opinions out on the web right now (i.e. on blogs, etc)? Do you think there is such a thing as "too many opinions"?
Yes. And yes. There's a lot of crap out there. A lot of people just spewing hate, ranting about everything and anything. For a good op-ed, you have to pick your fight/topic carefully. As I tell my students: "Everyone is not entitled to your opinion." It's always important to have something fresh and provocative to say. And it's important to know when to shut up. The writer should be qualified to speak on the subject addressed in their essay. For example, everyone has an opinion on President Bush. But not everyone has a unique perspective about Mr. Bush's policies that makes them an authoritative voice.

What is the future of op-ed writing and will it ever be affected by the present diminishing relevance of print?
The future looks bright. There is good, smart work being done at both small and large newspapers as well as on blogs and Web sites. I don't think that print is becoming irrelevant. Rather, I think print and online op-eds are complementing one another. And there are certainly enough opinions to go around. They just have to be smart and well-argued.

Join Lion in her Op-Ed Writing Boot Camp in New York on January 22, where you will write four pieces ready to be published.

--Katherine Dagenhart