This book investigates the legal and ethical tensions surrounding the protection of anonymous sources within the context of journalistic integrity and state power. Damian Carney, a legal scholar, examines the shifting landscape of source confidentiality by comparing international legal frameworks and theoretical justifications for reporter privilege. The text argues that the erosion of source protection undermines the democratic function of the press, proposing a critical re-evaluation of how courts and legislatures balance national security against the public's right to know.

Legal scholars and media practitioners frequently cite this work as a comprehensive resource for understanding the intersection of constitutional law and investigative reporting. Experts note the academic density of the prose, making it a foundational text for students and professionals navigating the complexities of media law.