The Literature Network - Anonymous sources. (journalists' use of anonymous sources) (includes related articles) (Cover Story)

Anonymous sources. (journalists' use of anonymous sources) (includes related articles) (Cover Story)

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From: American Journalism Review
Date: 19941201
Author:Shepard, Alicia C.

There is renewed debate about the use of anonymous sources in the wake of inaccurate articles about the O.J. Simpson case attributed to confidential sources. Most news people agree that the use of anonymous sources reduces the credibility of stories. There is an unwritten code about using such sources as a last resort. In many organizations this needs to be approved by high level management. Some journalists believe that some specifics about sources' backgrounds should be given to help readers understand the context of the information.

A flurry of inaccurate stories about O.J. Simpson ...

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