Unravelling Watergate’s impact: Revisiting Bernstein and Woodward’s approach for journalism in the digital age

This article examines the enduring influence of Bob Woodward’s and Carl Bernstein’s investigative reporting during the Watergate affair and its relevance to present-day journalism. By contextualizing the iconic status of both investigative journalists within a nuanced perspective, this article juxtaposes their modus operandi with journalistic practices of the present day. In addition to academic literature, primary sources such as All the President’s Men and personal accounts from the key figures form the foundation of this investigation into journalistic history. This article dissects the methodologies of the two pioneering journalists and their editors, examining contentious issues such as the use of anonymous sources. Furthermore, it confronts considerations such as the balance between comprehensive research and thus delaying publication vs. early release with subsequent corrections; the divergence from official sources to focus on grassroots testimonies and the preference for conversational interviews over formal recording methods and official press briefings. Finally, the article examines Woodward and Bernstein’s advocacy of objective journalism aiming at ‘the best obtainable version of the truth’, as stated by Bernstein.