My inclination, as an old-school, classically trained journalist, is not to go with a story unless I have it hard. It's not good enough to say something based on rumors that were flying around.
Wolf BlitzerRead
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.
Similar quotes
The difference between Rappler and other newsgroups in the Philippines is that journalists control Rappler both editorially and commercially. We make decisions that are bad for business but protect the public sphere.
Maria RessaRead
The greatest felony in the news business today is to be behind, or to miss a big story. So speed and quantity substitute for thoroughness and quality, for accuracy and context.
Carl BernsteinRead
I joined the 'Times' in 1972, and I came with the mark of Cain on me because I was clearly against the war. But my editor, Abe Rosenthal, he hired me because he liked stories. He used to come to the Washington bureau and almost literally pat me on the head and say, 'How is my little Commie today? What do you have for me?'
Seymour HershRead
I suppose, in the end, we journalists try - or should try - to be the first impartial witnesses of history. If we have any reason for our existence, the least must be our ability to report history as it happens so that no one can say: 'we didn't know - no one told us.'
Robert FiskRead
In the normal course of things, journalists want their story, and as soon as they are through with it, they pack their cameras and go. That was never the impression that David Astor gave when you were interviewed by him. It was far deeper than that.
Winnie Madikizela-MandelaRead