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Foreign news is considered an expletive. Thoughtfully…

“Foreign news is considered an expletive. Thoughtfully written analysis is out, 'live pops' are in. 'Action Jackson' is the cry. Hire lookers, not writers. Do powder puff, not probing interviews. Stay away from controversial subjects. Kiss ass, move with the mass, and for heaven and rating's sake…” quote by Dan Rather
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“Foreign news is considered an expletive. Thoughtfully written analysis is out, 'live pops' are in. 'Action Jackson' is the cry. Hire lookers, not writers. Do powder puff, not probing interviews. Stay away from controversial subjects. Kiss ass, move with the mass, and for heaven and rating's sake, don't make anybody mad- - certainly not anybody you're covering, and especially not the mayor, the governor, the senator, the president or the vice-president or anybody in a position of power. Make nice, not news.”

Dan Rather

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He criticizes media for prioritizing sensationalism over thoughtful analysis, urging conformity over critique.

In simple terms: Media favors hype over depth, discouraging critical reporting.

Key Takeaway

Demand deeper, honest journalism.

Themes

media ethics conformity

Mood

critical cautionary

Type

journalistic political

When to use this quote

  • newsrooms
  • political coverage
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

sensationalism political pressure

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can journalists balance audience appeal and integrity?
  • What role should audiences play in demanding quality news?
A Different Perspective

Conformity can stifle truth and accountability.

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