Searching for Truth

The world is full of questions and unknowns, but people are dying to know the truth. There always seems to be an ambiguous feel to supposed truths floating around in the world. While everyone would like to have truth, it is difficult to find truth and have a sure knowledge that what is being shared is truth. As journalists, we seek to find answers to life's mysteries and to clear up the haziness in the stories we report. However, how can journalists be sure that they are writing truth?

Naturally, journalists turn to facts in order to ensure truth in their articles. In Jeffrey Scheuer's book, "The Big Picture," Scheuer states, "They (facts) are by definition islands of agreement in a sea of uncertainty" (67). Facts are certain, unchangeable statements that provide clarity and evidence to a story. Truth is the equivalent to facts.

By researching and interviewing a variety of people from all angles and perspectives, a journalist is opening up to knowledge that helps easier decipher between the truth or a lie. Since there is so much gray area in truth, journalists need to have a critical eye. They need a skill of discernment and dedication.