How well does your journalism fit with the Four A's of Public Life?
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When you look at your coverage over time, does it convey the following:

Authority

• How does your journalism demonstrate an understanding of people, their lives, aspirations and concerns?
• How does your coverage inform people’s decisions about the issues that matter most to them?
• How do you use your knowledge of communities to make news judgments?

Authenticity

• To what extent would people from all parts of the community find a portrait that “rings true” in your journalism?
• How well does your work uncover and reflect the many dimensions of people’s lives?

Accountability

• To what extent do you focus on issues that really mean something to people?  How do you know?
• How do you uncover and account for your own preconceived views about people and issues?
• What do you do to consistently deliver on your aspirations and goals for your journalism?

Affection

• How do you demonstrate that you care about the best interests of the community?
• What do you do to help the community face up to tough issues with care and compassion?

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