What Investigative Reporting Entails
Author:
Paul Wilson
The field of investigative reporting involves bringing to the fore
facts and figure that affect human interests and fair governance. This
means conducting in depth research, looking at public records, doing
extensive interviews, as well as checking and rechecking of facts
before publication. Whether print or television, investigative
reporting is essentially “watchdog” reporting. This means reporting
crimes, unfair practices, injustice, as well as other human interest
aspects like environment, disease, and so on.
Investigative
journalism can move public opinion and instill fear in those treading
the wrong path. Slave trade, gun running, terrorist activities, drug
trafficking, money laundering and so on are brought to the notice of
the world by investigative journalism.
An investigative
journalist must be unafraid, determined, patient, watchful, fair, as
well as dog minded to be successful. The questions a journalist seeks
answers to are: who is responsible for the wrong doing; what methods
were employed; what are the consequences; what can be done to correct
the wrong; can the wrongdoers be brought to book?
The keys are
to dig up the first lead, tip, or hunch. Then sniff around for facts.
Form an investigative hypothesis. Next, like a detective, gather
evidence that will prove undeniably the hypothesis. This will involve
interviews, documents, records, proofs, and intense paper work.
Organize the information and write the report. Check facts, check
chances of libel, and the laws. To be good at your work it is
advantageous if you are familiar with the law, know the procedures, can
conduct quick and accurate research, follow the money trail, and dig
out facts.
Investigative journalism is a specialized field
that uses journalism skills, curiosity, advanced research methods, and
a determination to right wrongs. This field of journalism is what helps
shape democracy and protects the lives of the innocent. Done correctly
it can raise public opinion to such an extent that the way the world
thinks and functions can be changed.
An investigative
journalist must work within the confines of ethics written and
unwritten and the laws. The work could include revealing scandals and
tracing infringements of laws, rules, or morals. Bring to public notice
the policies of governments, companies, and other organizations. And,
institute social change by describing social, economic, political, and
cultural trends.
To be effective in investigative journalism
the journalist must have high standards of functioning and be above
corruption. The principles of truthfulness, accuracy, objectivity,
impartiality, fair play, and public accountability must be deeply
ingrained in the mind and soul of the journalist. Since investigative
journalism involves use of undercover sources and anonymous tips it is
absolutely essential for the journalist to double check facts.
Investigative
journalism is news with a difference. It is critical and in depth
investigations to a happening or policy which will serve to prevent or
correct a wrong, prevent crimes, save the planet from destruction, and
shape the future of the world in more ways than one. It is reporting
the unknown, the hidden, and so, the investigative journalist becomes
the keeper or custodian of public conscience.
It is a field
where a mere niggling thought or suspicion becomes an expose of wrong
doings. It questions actions and decisions and brings to the limelight
outrageous acts and in human actions. In simple terms an investigative
journalist polices society in the larger interests of mankind.
About Author
Paul Wilson is a freelance writer for http://www.1888PressRelease.com
, the premier website to Submit Free Press Release for any
announcements including launching of new product or services, new
website, announcing new hires, sponsoring a special event or seminar
and more. He also freelances for the premier REVENUE SHARING discussion
forum site http://www.1888Discuss.com
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