Journalism according to Publius

“If men were angels, no government would be necessary. If angels were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary.”
~Publius, The Federalist Papers Number 57

While this document, most likely authored by Alexander Hamilton or James Madison, never mentions journalism, previous and subsequent Federalist publications make the mention of “external” controls a clear reference to the freedom of the press. The is the most essential role of journalists is to fill the need laid forth by this quote: a secondary monitor on those in power.

The idea that the Constitution of the United States of America was set forth in such a superior manner to be a self-containing, corruption-free unit, operating in the interests of the people is simply not a reality. One look at the ills exposed by the investigative journalism, taking place now, illustrates the importance of the watchdog. Often, internal governmental review occurs only after journalism brings the error to light.

Despite my skepticism, harsh statements and anti-establishment tendencies, I love this nation. I became a journalist with the ideal of helping grease the cogs that make the clockwork of democracy tick. In high school I thought politics would satiate my feelings of obligation to serve the nation. I quickly realized a major flaw with this profession: I didn’t like the “politics” involved. The every day vying for approval and popularity associated with teenage girls isn’t too far from the workings on Capitol Hill. I found myself distanced from the squabbles and drama of my friends. Rather, I observed the intricacies of the game and learned only to give advice to those within the system.

This analogy might appear trivial, however, I find that this describes the role I play as a journalist today: the proverbial “fly on the wall” if you will. I search for that which needs to be exposed and expose it. I analyze the intricacies of policy, searching to educate people and illuminate the situation.

Another sector of American society that needs to be watched by journalists has emerged in the face of modernity. Yes, once again I am dragging “big businesses” into my debates. This sector didn’t exist in the days of Hamilton and Madison, but had it been the lobbying-superpower that it is today, the two probably would have addressed the issue in their infamous papers.

Enron and Tyco proved to America, if nothing else, that capitalism does not instill ethics in corporations. A secondary check on the power and control of these mega companies is essential. Journalists almost missed the boat with Enron, but eventually they hit the target, sinking the ship. If journalists are to serve the public well, they must investigate both the governmental and businesses sectors.

Perhaps Publius did address the need of a watchdog for corporations in The Federalist Papers Number 57. In an abstract sort of way that pits the haves against the have-nots in a society filled with middle-class workers.

“It is of great importance in a republic not only to guard the society against the oppression of its rulers, but to guard one part of the society against the injustice of the other part. Different interests necessarily exist in different classes of citizens. If a majority be united by a common interest, the rights of the minority will be insecure.”