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Journalism Quote by Carl Bernstein

“Aware that much of the story was out of his hands, he tried to exercise what control he could: he hovered around the reporters' typewriters as they wrote, passed them questions as they talked on the phone to sources, demanded to be briefed after they hung up or returned from a meeting. Now…” quote by Carl Bernstein
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““Aware that much of the story was out of his hands, he tried to exercise what control he could: he hovered around the reporters' typewriters as they wrote, passed them questions as they talked on the phone to sources, demanded to be briefed after they hung up or returned from a meeting. Now, gulping down antacid tablets, Rosenfeld grilled Bernstein and Woodward to find out how solid this latest story was.””

Carl Bernstein

About This Quote

Source Book: Investigative Journalism, 1995

He attempts to control a story by pressuring reporters and demanding briefings.

In simple terms: He tries to manipulate media coverage.

Key Takeaway

Maintain transparency, avoid manipulation.

Themes

media control ethics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

ethical analytical

When to use this quote

  • press conferences
  • media strategy
  • public relations

Key Concepts

Journalistic integrity power dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can journalists protect independence?
  • What ethical boundaries should be set?
A Different Perspective

Manipulation erodes trust.

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