The newspaper is of necessity something of a monopoly, and…
“The newspaper is of necessity something of a monopoly, and its first duty is to shun the temptations of monopoly. Its primary office is the gathering of news. At the peril of its soul it must see that the supply is not tainted. Neither in what it gives, nor in what it does not give, nor in the mode of presentation, must the unclouded face of truth suffer wrong. Comment is free but facts are sacred.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The press must avoid monopoly temptations, gather unbiased news, and protect truth, treating facts as sacred despite free commentary.
In simple terms: Journalists must stay independent, gather facts, and protect truth.
Key Takeaway
Guard truth and independence.
Themes
journalism
truth
ethics
freedom of press
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- newsrooms
- investigative reporting
- media regulation
- public education
Key Concepts
media responsibility
information integrity
public trust
Questions to Reflect On
- How can media stay independent?
- What safeguards protect factual reporting?
A Different Perspective
Commercial pressures can compromise integrity.