What makes a source a source?

[a_random_joel]

Ongoing debate regarding the Plame case and "sources."

Here's a question to consider:

If a "source" intentionally provides false information to a journalist, is that source truly a source?

The reason I am asking, is because it appears plain to me that what makes a source a bona fide source is the quality and type of information that said source reveals.

Anyone else on board with that?

[1932]

1. If someone asks you to print their press release verbatim...

...and the press release is company policy, does that make them a source?

[htuttle]

2. What makes a journalist a journalist?

Seems that it's something you do, not something you are.

Does the same go for a source?

If the source is providing information for a story, they are clearly a source. But if they are chatting with you at the pool in a purely social situation, is that a source?

Questions about doctors, priests and spousal confidentiality are a lot more clear cut, because doctors have to be licensed, priests confirmed, and spouses married. There's no 'journalist' license, and even Abbie Hoffman scored a press pass once (from Mad Magazine, no less).

:shrug: