Evolution of the Objectivity Doctrine in American Journalism: from Watergate to the Present

Abstract

Throughout the twentieth century, the doctrine of objectivity served as the primary foundation for public trust in American journalism. However, a re-evaluation of this doctrine appears necessary in view of a series of ethical scandals at the turn of the century, stemming from its misapplication, as well as growing skepticism toward official information sources and an emerging bias among a new generation of journalists against lower-status audiences. This shift has received only sporadic attention in the works by contemporary Russian scholars. Accordingly, this study aims to identify the causes and nature of the changes that the doctrine of objectivity has undergone in recent decades. An analysis and synthesis of the critical discourse regarding the doctrine of objectivity,  as found in the works by American historians and sociologists of journalism, practitioners, and certain philosophers, leads to the conclusion that its transformation has resulted in the emergence of transparency as a new foundation for the cultural capital of American journalism, while objectivity remains one of its core components. These findings broaden the scope for comparative studies between American and Russian journalism.