Monday, October 24, 2011

Elements of Journalism 4-8

Two key points from Elements of Journalism chapters 4-8:

1. (pg. 89) The discipline of verification isn't just a nice, general goal to aim for; there is a distinct set of principals, a "science" per se, to reporting with accuracy. In short, the "scientific method" is 1) don't add, 2) don't deceive, 3) transparency, 4) originality, and 5) humility. Even with these key principles in place, it is the job of every journalist to develop them and make them his own.

2. (pg. 140) One of the main roles that journalists play is that of the monitor of power or "watchdog." The fact that the press even exists already prevents a lot of corruption, but when those in power still try to get away with misdeeds, the press is also there to report the incident to the people and keep those in power accountable. It is also the job of the press to inform the people about how those in power are supposed to function so that they can determine what is just and unjust, moral and immoral.

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