The American Journalist: Fiction Versus Fact.

Provides a humorous look at contemporary journalism and its image in American society through an examination of two types of fictional journalists: the "reporter" and the "newswoman." Fictional journalists, including Clark Kent, are often funny reflections of real journalists. The author traces their depiction in film, novels, and science fiction since the mid-19th century and outlines the various stages in the development of their portrayal. Although most of these depictions are mere caricatures, they shape the view of journalists among the public, which often blames journalists for bad news and has shown an increased willingness to advocate censorship.