faqs.org » Abstracts Index » Abstracts » Literature/writing

Theory and documentation

Article Abstract:

Many books claiming to be investigative reporting have been published on John F. Kennedy's assassination but most report only the facts that support their authors' theories and derive conclusions by leaps of faith with little evidence. The best of the assassination books is Jim Marrs' 'Crossfire,' used by Oliver Stone's 'JFK,' but even Marrs tells readers that his books is not to be completely trusted and is sometimes selective in relaying facts. Few of these books deserve the label of investigative reporting and more books like Marrs' should be published to give the public fact rather than fiction.

Kennedy, John F., Assassination

---

The high hurdles of the FOIA: is the deteriorating situation a reason to quit filing requests?

Article Abstract:

Many journalists are frustrated with the obstacles to receiving government information under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the situation has only worsened under Presidents Reagan and Bush. FOIA offices are understaffed and the Justice Department often refuses to enforce FOIA response times and other provisions. However, there are also successful requests and government information is a necessary if difficult source for journalists so the FOIA requests should be filed regardless of the problems. Some examples of successful FOIA cases are included.

Cover Story, Access control, Journalists, Government information

---

Resources for investigating

Article Abstract:

Books such as 'Speaking of Journalism: Twelve Writers and Editors Talk About Their Work' 'Groping for Ethics in Journalism,' and 'Consumer Health Information Source Book' will help investigator reporters. Stanley Penn's 'Have I got a Tip for you... and other Tales of Dirty Secrets, Political Payoffs and Corporate Scams: A guide to Investigative Reporting,' consists of 12 chapters, which detail different projects done by the author.

Investigative reporting

Some parts © 2012 Advameg, Inc.