If information is true, if it can be verified, and if it's…
“If information is true, if it can be verified, and if it's really important, the newspaper needs to be willing to take the risk associated with using unidentified sources.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Journalists should verify truth, importance, and be prepared to risk using unnamed sources when necessary.
In simple terms: Verify truth, importance, and risk use unknown sources.
Balance verification with responsible risk.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- investigative reporting
- breaking news
- whistleblower cases
- political scandals
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to use an unnamed source?
- How do you assess the importance of a story?
Unidentified sources can damage credibility if mishandled.