Journalism & Media

Survey results published in July 2008 show that scientist-journalist interactions "are more frequent and smooth than previously thought," according to the survey authors. Yet results also indicate that "science journalism is too tame, that is, that it is easily exploited by scientific sources."

Research suggests that the news media block or transform "beyond recognition" the aims of environmental and other activist groups. But a recent study suggests otherwise. It concludes that investigative journalists often are activists, but they stay within professional boundaries.

The key ingredient of credible daily journalism — the passion to make a difference — will lead to a bright future, no matter which medium delivers it.

SEJ President Christy George explains why she's convinced that an awareness of "sense of place" adds a deeper dimension to our reporting. What is nature writing if not an exploration of very particular places? And I mean nature writing in the broadest sense, including writing about PCBs, CFCs, or CAFOs.

Global warming, toxic chemicals and threats to biodiversity were major themes of the best environmental journalism of 2005- 2006, according to judges in the fifth annual contest sponsored by the Society of Environmental Journalists.

 By MIKE DUNNE 
In one case, it was taking a recurring story one step further.

In two stories, a phone tip prompted the reporters. Another was a big story for a big anniversary – one that would affect every person on the planet.

Editor's note: The following is an excerpt from the interview with NPR's Howard Berkes.

Berkes points to a pile of colorful notebooks on the floor of McPhee's office at Princeton University.

 By HOWARD BERKES 
You might think writing comes easy to John McPhee.

He's been at it more than 40 years, after all, producing 27 books, writing for The New Yorker since 1964 and teaching writing at Princeton since 1975. And, oh yes, he has that Pulitzer Prize. All those years and words and accomplishments ought to add up to confidence – even hubris, perhaps – when turning a sea of complex detail, facts and characters into smoothly flowing narrative.