Michael Woodford, John Bates Clark Professor of Political Economy at Columbia University | Columbia University
Michael Woodford, John Bates Clark Professor of Political Economy at Columbia University | Columbia University
The book "Newshawks in Berlin" sheds light on the challenging environment faced by journalists reporting from Nazi Germany. Written by Larry Heinzerling, Randy Herschaft, and Ann Cooper, a professor emeritus at Columbia Journalism School, the book uncovers the compromises made by the Associated Press (AP) to continue reporting under the Nazi regime.
In a recent interview with Columbia News, Ann Cooper discussed the book "Newshawks in Berlin" and shared insights into the journalistic dilemmas faced during that era. Cooper highlighted the debate journalists face in dictatorships, emphasizing the importance of reporting first-hand despite censorship restrictions.
Reflecting on her immersion in literature, Cooper mentioned two novels by Andriy Kurkov and a book by Peter Pringle, showcasing her interest in exploring historical narratives. She also expressed admiration for figures like Vasily Grossman, Mstyslav Chernov, and Lindsey Hilsum, recognizing their contributions to storytelling in conflict zones.
Cooper's discussion on the challenges of reporting in wartime echoes the experiences of journalists like Mary Louise Kelly of NPR, who emphasized the value of on-the-ground reporting despite criticisms. Cooper's insights shed light on the complexities journalists navigate while covering conflicts and historical events.
As the legacy of journalists operating in Nazi Germany continues to be examined, works like "Newshawks in Berlin" provide crucial insights into the ethical and practical challenges faced by media professionals during tumultuous times.