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The Journalist and the Murderer summary
Janet Malcolm
Brief summary
The Journalist and the Murderer by Janet Malcolm explores the complex and often contentious relationship between journalists and their subjects, using the case of a convicted murderer and the journalist who wrote about him as a thought-provoking example.
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The Journalist and the Murderer
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Complex Relationship Between Journalist and Subject
In The Journalist and the Murderer by Janet Malcolm, we are taken on a thought-provoking journey that delves into the intricate and often contentious relationship between journalists and their subjects. The book begins with the case of Jeffrey MacDonald, a former Green Beret doctor who was convicted of murdering his wife and two young daughters. MacDonald had allowed journalist Joe McGinniss to write a book about his case, believing that McGinniss would present his side of the story.
However, MacDonald was shocked to discover that McGinniss had concluded his guilt before the trial even began. McGinniss's book, Fatal Vision, portrayed MacDonald as a sociopathic killer, a betrayal that led to a lawsuit from MacDonald against McGinniss. This lawsuit forms the basis of Malcolm's exploration into the ethics and dynamics of journalism.
The Betrayal of Trust
Malcolm argues that the relationship between journalist and subject is inherently flawed, built on a foundation of mutual deception. The journalist, she contends, must gain the trust of the subject to obtain the necessary information, yet the journalist's ultimate goal is to reveal the subject's story to the public, often in a way that may not align with the subject's intentions. This, Malcolm suggests, is a form of betrayal.
She uses McGinniss's actions as a prime example of this betrayal. By pretending to be sympathetic to MacDonald's cause, McGinniss was able to gain access to his inner thoughts and feelings, only to use this information to paint a damning picture of him in his book. Malcolm argues that this kind of deception is inherent in the journalist-subject relationship, and that the subject is always at a disadvantage.
The Journalist's Role as a 'Con'
Malcolm goes on to describe the journalist as a 'confidence man' or a 'con'. She argues that the journalist, like a con artist, must gain the trust of the subject in order to extract the necessary information. However, unlike a con artist, the journalist's ultimate goal is not personal gain, but rather the public good. This, she suggests, is what makes the journalist's role so morally complex.
She also points out that the journalist's ability to manipulate the subject's trust is often a key factor in the success of their work. This manipulation, she argues, is a necessary evil, but one that should be acknowledged and understood by both parties involved.
The Unavoidable Conflict
Malcolm concludes that the inherent conflict between journalist and subject is unavoidable. The subject, she argues, is always at a disadvantage, as they must trust the journalist to tell their story accurately and fairly. However, the journalist's ultimate loyalty is to the public, not the subject, and this can lead to a betrayal of trust, as in the case of MacDonald and McGinniss.
In the end, The Journalist and the Murderer is a powerful exploration of the complex and often fraught relationship between journalist and subject. Malcolm's analysis challenges us to consider the ethical implications of this relationship, and to question the role of the journalist as both a storyteller and a 'con'.
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What is The Journalist and the Murderer about?
The Journalist and the Murderer by Janet Malcolm delves into the complex relationship between a journalist and their subject. Through the case of a convicted murderer who feels betrayed by the journalist who wrote about him, Malcolm explores the ethics and morality of journalism and the inherent power dynamics at play. It raises thought-provoking questions about truth, trust, and the blurred line between reality and storytelling.
The Journalist and the Murderer Review
The Journalist and the Murderer (1990) is an intriguing exploration of the complex relationship between journalists and their subjects. Here's why this book is a worthwhile read:
- By delving into the controversial case of a journalist accused of betraying his subject, the book raises thought-provoking questions about ethics and professional responsibility.
- With meticulous research and interviews, Janet Malcolm dissects the dynamics of journalism and the inherent tension between truth-seeking and storytelling.
- The book's deeply insightful analysis of the psychological motivations behind journalistic practices ensures that it is far from dull, keeping readers engaged throughout.
Who should read The Journalist and the Murderer?
- Journalists who want to explore the ethical complexities of their profession
- True crime enthusiasts interested in the relationship between reporters and their subjects
- Readers who appreciate thought-provoking narratives that challenge conventional wisdom
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The Journalist and the Murderer FAQs
What is the main message of The Journalist and the Murderer?
The main message of The Journalist and the Murderer is the complex relationship between journalists and their subjects.
How long does it take to read The Journalist and the Murderer?
The reading time for The Journalist and the Murderer varies, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is The Journalist and the Murderer a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Journalist and the Murderer is worth reading for its thought-provoking exploration of the ethical boundaries of journalism.
Who is the author of The Journalist and the Murderer?
The author of The Journalist and the Murderer is Janet Malcolm.
What to read after The Journalist and the Murderer?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Journalist and the Murderer, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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