Lecture Eleven: Investigative Journalism

In this, our final lecture, we were introduced (or re-introduced in my case) to the art of investigative journalism. Having completed a course in Journalistic investigation, I felt quite knowledgeable (for once) sitting in that lecture theatre. Investigative journalism is a way in which people can discover the truths of the world and uncover what someone may be trying to hide. Investigative journalism is characteristically intelligent, informed, intuitive, inside and one must be heavily invested. In my opinion it can form some of the most interesting news stories around. In some cases it can provide a voice to those without.

For a well written investigative journalism piece to occur it is critical that the journalist takes a thorough approach and consults a wide range of courses. It also takes breaches of societal norms and brings them to the forefront, essentially exposing wrongdoings. Investigative journalism can hold those in power accountable and make public personalities and institutions whose actions impact social and political accountable also.

Investigative journalists must show initiative and passion in exposing their stories. If it weren’t for the work of inquisitive journalists the Watergate scandal would not have been exposed. These journalists cut through the agenda (as mentioned in my last post) and expose stories to the public that should be of high interest.

However, facts must be investigated by the journalist and nothing can EVER be assumed. This is where investigative journalism differs from PR. Public relations tend to carefully select (and omit) facts in order to present the story in a particular way. This would not be the way of a true investigative journalist!! Observation, interview and analysis are the keys to uncovering a groundbreaking story.