Important Quote by Bob Woodward
“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
Source Interview: 60 Minutes, CBS, 1998
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.
Key Takeaway
Balance verification with responsible risk.
Themes
journalism
ethics
risk management
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
advisory
reflective
When to use this quote
- investigative reporting
- breaking news
- whistleblower cases
- political scandals
Key Concepts
source verification
public interest
media responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it justified to use an unnamed source?
- How do you assess the importance of a story?
A Different Perspective
Unidentified sources can damage credibility if mishandled.
