Meaning: The quote "The first essence of journalism is to know what you want to know, the second, is to find out who will tell you" by John Gunther, a renowned journalist, encapsulates the fundamental principles of journalistic inquiry and the critical role of sources in the process of gathering and disseminating information. This quote underscores the importance of clarity in the journalist's objectives and the significance of building connections with reliable sources.

In the first part of the quote, Gunther emphasizes the significance of having a clear understanding of the subject matter. This highlights the necessity of defining the scope and purpose of the investigation, which is essential for effective and impactful journalism. Without a clear sense of what one wants to know, the journalistic endeavor can lack direction and focus, potentially leading to a superficial or incomplete portrayal of the issue at hand. This aspect of the quote underscores the importance of thorough research, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of the subject matter before embarking on the journalistic journey.

The second part of the quote highlights the crucial role of sources in journalism. Finding the right sources is essential for obtaining accurate, relevant, and credible information. Journalists must identify individuals, organizations, or experts who possess the knowledge, experience, or insight necessary to provide valuable perspectives on the topic being investigated. This aspect of the quote underscores the significance of building relationships, networking, and engaging in effective communication with potential sources. It also emphasizes the need for journalists to verify the credibility and reliability of their sources to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the information they provide.

Furthermore, Gunther's quote underscores the ethical responsibilities associated with journalism. Journalists are entrusted with the task of seeking the truth and presenting it to the public in a fair, unbiased, and transparent manner. As such, the process of identifying and engaging with sources requires a commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, and respect for the privacy and confidentiality of individuals who share information with journalists. By recognizing the importance of knowing what one wants to know and finding trustworthy sources, Gunther's quote reinforces the ethical imperatives that underpin the practice of journalism.

In today's rapidly evolving media landscape, characterized by the proliferation of digital platforms and the instantaneous dissemination of information, Gunther's quote remains as relevant as ever. Journalists continue to navigate a complex and dynamic environment where discerning the truth from a multitude of sources is an ongoing challenge. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring principles that guide the journalistic process, emphasizing the need for clarity, discernment, and ethical engagement with sources in the pursuit of truth and public enlightenment.

In conclusion, John Gunther's quote encapsulates the essence of journalism by emphasizing the importance of clarity in defining one's objectives and the critical role of sources in the process of gathering and disseminating information. By knowing what one wants to know and finding trustworthy sources, journalists uphold the principles of integrity, accuracy, and ethical conduct in their pursuit of truth and public enlightenment. As the media landscape continues to evolve, Gunther's quote serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring principles that underpin the practice of journalism.