All The President's Men Vs Shattered Glass: Why do journalists embrace the belief that confidential sources should be protected? Do you agree?

On occasion, journalists have the task of exposing story that may be scandalous, controversial, or even dangerous. While it is important to reveal sources whenever available in order to add credibility to the story, it is not always possible or safe. Therefore, many sources for such cases will only talk to journalist as long as their identity is not revealed to either ensure safety or privacy.

 For example, in the film, All The President's Men, Woodward and Bernstein spoke to several sources, like Deep Throat and Sloan's bookkeeper, that would have risked their jobs or even their lives if their true identities were known. However, the information that they gave The Washington Post reporters were essential to reveal the Watergate scandal. They needed to be assured that their names would be kept secret before they told what they knew about the President, the most powerful man in the country. Without a doubt, I think that journalists should keep certain sources confidential. 

On the other hand, those reporters should not abuse the trust of their readers or publication by lying about sources, like Stephen Glass as portrayed in Shattered Glass. Importantly, journalist should understand that they have an ethical responsibility.