In everyday journalism, there are various practices that reporters follow when conducting interviews and reporting news stories. One common practice is to anonymize or not disclose the identity of someone who has provided an interview for privacy or protection reasons. However, some may argue that it is customary to mention the name of the interviewer when quoting from a conversation in an article. Fareed Zakaria, a renowned journalist and commentator, suggests otherwise with his statement, implying that this belief might be mistaken.
Zakaria’s quote delves into the nuances of journalistic standards and practices, challenging a commonly held assumption about how interviews are cited in journalism. He is pointing out that while there may be situations where naming an interviewer can add context or credibility to a story, it is not necessarily a universal standard or requirement in the industry. This perspective highlights the variability and flexibility within journalistic norms, as well as the potential for misconceptions around what constitutes best practice in reporting. Zakaria’s assertion encourages readers and other professionals to critically examine their understanding of these practices.
Fareed Zakaria is a prominent figure in global affairs journalism and commentary. Born in India, he has become an influential voice on international politics and economics through his work with CNN and The Washington Post, among others. His insights often focus on the intersection of U.S. foreign policy and global political trends, making him well-versed in discussing the complexities and nuances within journalistic practices.
