ABSTRACT
A journalist’s most important duty is to serve as a public watchdog, looking out for the interests of citizens. That responsibility comes with the First Amendment protection of a free press. Good journalists keep a close eye on society and its institutions at all levels and give citizens the information they need to make sound decisions in their public and private lives. Watchdog journalists look hard at government, education, businesses and utilities, nonprofits, the justice system, the health care industry and religious institutions, holding them accountable for both their actions and their inactions. Watchdog journalism is a critical component of creating an informed citizenry in our democracy.
