This study examines the meaning of being and doing journalism, based on the construction of the character of journalists. The character includes identifying values shared by journalists (being), as well as actions, behaviors and attitudes that are shared and taken as peculiar to the group (doing). It also intends to establish the relation between such identifications and what the group defines as theory and practice. Based on interviews with Brazilian and American journalists, as well as on other sources examined, it tries to form an ideal type using the definitions of the attributes most and least valued in building the journalist s character. According to such perspective, the study shows that the character recognizes the elements deemed practical, as opposed to those considered theoretical. Although the journalist s character is attached to an idea of practice, the study also questions the self-image and the self-narrative found in the group, taking into account that the elements least valued may also be found in the construction of the group s character, and the arguable separation between theory and practice in the formation of the journalist s character.