Quote by Evelyn Waugh
If, for instance, they have heard something from the postman, they attribute it to a semi-official statement; if they have fallen into conversation with a stranger at a bar, they can conscientiously describe him as a source that has hitherto proved unimpeachable. It is only when the journalist is reporting a whim of his own, and one to which he attaches minor importance, that he defines it as the opinion of well-informed circles.
Summary
This quote highlights the tendency of journalists to manipulate the sources of their information to establish credibility. The quote suggests that journalists often attribute information to semi-official statements or trustworthy sources, even if the source is as casual as a conversation with a stranger at a bar. However, when reporting a personal opinion or something of lesser significance, journalists tend to present it as the view of well-informed circles. This highlights how journalists selectively identify sources to enhance the validity and importance of their reports.
Topics
Journalism
By Evelyn Waugh
Liked the quote? Share it with your friends.
Random Quotations
