Pitch Dictionary by pitch.dog
Editorial control, compliance & public interest · Core

Public interest

Also called: public-interest test

ELI5

A genuine benefit to society that may justify reporting or disclosure beyond private curiosity.

Used in conversation

“The proposal needs to explain the public interest, not just promise it.”

Definition

A justification based on meaningful benefit to society, distinct from what merely interests the public.

Here “Public interest” means: A justification based on meaningful benefit to society, distinct from what merely interests the public.

Pitch context

Use this in nonfiction pitches to separate what is known, accessible, ethical and structurally repeatable.

Why it matters: Distinguishes story, access, evidence, format mechanics and participant-care responsibilities.

Sources & evidence · 8

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.