If an investigative reporter finds out that someone has been robbing the store, that may be 'gotcha' journalism, but it's also good journalism.
Ben BradleeRead
I violated, apparently, an unspoken rule that we are supposed to take care of our own. Frankly, if that invites discomfort, I welcome it. I don't think there's enough discomfort in journalism, especially in Washington.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of confronting uncomfortable truths in journalism, especially regarding accountability.
Mark Leibovich highlights the often unspoken expectation in journalism to protect one's own colleagues or institutions. He argues that feeling discomfort is essential for critical reporting, particularly in political contexts like Washington, where complacency can hinder transparency and accountability. By welcoming discomfort, he suggests that journalists should prioritize truth and integrity over camaraderie.
Themes
JournalismDiscomfortAccountabilityTruthWashington
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a speech at a journalism conference to emphasize the role of journalists in challenging authority.
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