If You Know, You Know: Journalism Is A Double-Edged Sword, by Isaac Asabor

In the age of instantaneous information, journalism stands as both a guardian and a disruptor of truth, embodying the dual nature of influence and responsibility. It is often said, “If you know, you know”, a phrase that hints at the nuanced, perilous nature of this profession. Journalism, indeed, is a double-edged sword, one that can empower or undermine, inform or mislead, create or destroy. As we reflect on this reality, we must ask: How can journalists honor their duty to the truth while navigating the perils of such a powerful role?

Journalism is often referred to as the “Fourth Estate,” a term that denotes its role as an essential pillar of democracy. By revealing truths, exposing injustice, and amplifying marginalized voices, journalists make it possible for people to understand the world around them. It is a profession rooted in service, aiming to create an informed citizenry capable of making educated decisions about their lives and leaders. As the famous saying goes, “Journalism is the first rough draft of history,” highlighting its role in recording events as they unfold and providing context for future understanding.

This capacity to shape public opinion is both its strength and its danger. Information holds power: a journalist’s words can inspire social change, fuel movements, and influence public perception on an international scale. Journalists often champion the truth, working tirelessly to reveal stories that would otherwise remain hidden. But this influence also means that journalists are wielding a tool that must be handled with precision and care. The potential for unintended harm is real, and the damage from a misreported story or sensationalist piece can be difficult to undo.

As Walter Lippmann, the renowned American journalist, noted, “There can be no higher law in journalism than to tell the truth and to shame the devil.” This quote captures the dual nature of journalism, suggesting both its noble intentions and its potential to discomfort or disrupt. Journalism’s goal is not to cater to those in power but to challenge authority, uncover wrongdoing, and ensure transparency, a daunting task that requires a commitment to integrity.

Journalism’s dual nature becomes particularly evident in the ethical dilemmas that journalists face daily. On one hand, there is an unwavering duty to uncover and report the truth, no matter how uncomfortable. On the other, journalists must consider the possible harm that might arise from their reporting. Where is the line between exposing information that serves the public good and causing undue harm to individuals involved in the story? It is a question every responsible journalist grapples with.

Consider investigative journalism, where reporters dive into sensitive, often controversial subjects involving powerful individuals or institutions. These journalists frequently risk their personal safety and legal challenges to bring crucial issues to light. When wielded responsibly, investigative journalism is a potent force for accountability. However, one misstep, such as failing to verify a source or overlooking essential context, can tarnish reputations, end careers, and disrupt lives unfairly.

A well-known example of this double-edged aspect is the Watergate scandal. While it showcased the power of journalism to hold the highest offices accountable, it also served as a cautionary tale. The work of journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein was transformative, yet their path required scrupulous fact-checking, strong ethics, and the courage to face significant personal risks. Not every story can afford to be so thoroughly vetted, and when errors slip through, the harm can be catastrophic.

In cases where journalists prioritize speed over accuracy, the potential for harm increases exponentially. The pressure to be the first to report a story is immense, especially in today’s digital age, where social media can amplify news (or rumors) in seconds. Misinformation spreads quickly, and once a false story circulates, it can take years to repair the damage done, even after retractions and apologies are made. It is this “publish now, fact-check later” approach that has intensified journalism’s double-edged nature in recent years.

The internet has revolutionized journalism, bringing information to the fingertips of millions and democratizing the flow of news. But this accessibility has a cost. The pressure to produce rapid content in the 24-hour news cycle has led to the rise of sensationalism, with headlines crafted to attract clicks rather than to inform. As a result, misinformation is no longer a rare exception but a regular occurrence, and the reputational stakes for journalists are at an all-time high.

Social media has also blurred the lines between professional journalism and citizen reporting. In a landscape where everyone with a smartphone can act as a reporter, the bar for what qualifies as newsworthy has lowered, and the distinction between fact and opinion has become increasingly muddled. This democratization is both a boon and a bane. On one hand, it allows for diverse voices and stories that mainstream media might overlook. On the other, it introduces a flood of unverified information that can mislead the public.

As former BBC reporter and Editor Martin Bell stated, “Journalism is a way of being in the world.” This sentiment resonates especially in the digital age, where journalists must remain vigilant against the allure of sensationalism, balancing their duty to inform with their obligation to ensure accuracy. The landscape may be filled with potential pitfalls, but the commitment to truth must remain unwavering.

The solution lies in adopting a balanced approach that holds truth and responsibility as two equally important guiding principles. Journalists who value ethics and transparency are aware of the potential harm their work can do. This awareness is not a deterrent; rather, it is a compass that keeps them aligned with their mission to serve society, not to stir chaos or simply attract views.

Journalism schools emphasize truth as the foundation of the profession, but ethical journalism goes beyond this by teaching reporters to be thoughtful in how they present that truth. The Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics, for example, urges journalists to “minimize harm.” This principle encourages journalists to act with compassion, particularly when reporting on sensitive subjects, and to avoid causing unnecessary harm whenever possible.

Transparency also plays a crucial role. By openly discussing their methodologies and acknowledging errors, journalists build trust with their audiences. This approach not only fosters credibility but also reminds the public that journalism is not infallible. Acknowledging fallibility, especially in high-stakes situations, helps bridge the gap between the journalist and the public, fostering a relationship based on trust rather than skepticism.

In the end, journalism’s dual nature is what makes it such a powerful and complex profession. Journalists are not merely conveyors of facts but custodians of truth, wielding the power to inform, influence, and sometimes disrupt. This power demands humility, constant self-reflection, and a steadfast commitment to integrity. The privilege to shape public opinion is not one to be taken lightly.

For those who grasp this double-edged reality, the phrase “If you know, you know” takes on a weightier meaning. It is a recognition of journalism’s true value and the discipline required to wield it responsibly. As the world continues to evolve, so too will journalism, shaping and reshaping its role as a force for truth and public good.

At its best, journalism can inform and inspire change, and at its worst, it can mislead and harm. Yet, for those who dedicate themselves to the craft with integrity, the rewards are profound. By honoring the responsibility that comes with the role, journalists not only contribute to the present but also to the historical record, offering future generations a window into the realities and complexities of our time.

In a world where information is both weapon and gift, it is the journalist’s duty to wield it wisely. The double-edged sword may be daunting, but for those who commit to the profession, it is also a privilege.