Definition of the word checkbook journalism

The term "checkbook journalism" was coined in the 1980s to describe a form of investigative reporting where journalists pay sources for information or access to events. This practice has been criticized for undermining traditional journalistic values such as objectivity, independence, and veracity, as it blurs the line between journalists as truth-seekers and freelancers for hire. Checkbook journalism can also raise questions of ethics and legality, as journalists may be seen as acting as a go-between for individuals looking to sell their stories or gain notoriety, rather than pursuing the facts on their own. Some argue that checkbook journalism can also compromise the integrity of sources, as they may feel pressured to provide sensational or inaccurate information for financial gain. Overall, checkbook journalism is a contentious issue in the journalism industry, with some supporting its use as a necessary tool in competitive investigative reporting, and others denouncing it as a damaging practice that erodes the credibility of journalists and undermines the trust of their audiences.