Truth and Transparency: Undercover Investigations in the Twenty-First Century

While undercover investigators have been celebrated as critical conduits of political speech, they have also been derided as intrusive and spy-like, inconsistent with private property rights, and morally or ethically questionable. In Truth and Transparency, Alan Chen and Justin Marceau examine this distinction and provide clarity that has until now been lacking. The book concretely defines undercover investigations, distinguishes the practice from investigative journalism and whistleblowing, and provides a comprehensive legal history. Chapters explores the public need for investigations and the rights of investigators, paying close attention to the types of investigations that fall beyond the scope of constitutional protection. The book also provides concrete empirical evidence of the broad, bipartisan support for undercover investigations and champions the practice as an essential component of the transparency our democracy needs to thrive.