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What the proprietorship of these papers is aiming at is…

“What the proprietorship of these papers is aiming at is power, and power without responsibility — the prerogative of the harlot through the ages. [Baldwin was attacking the leading press barons of his day (Lord Beaverbrook and Lord Rothermere); the phrase was suggested by Baldwin's cousin Rudyard…” quote by Stanley Baldwin
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““What the proprietorship of these papers is aiming at is power, and power without responsibility — the prerogative of the harlot through the ages. [Baldwin was attacking the leading press barons of his day (Lord Beaverbrook and Lord Rothermere); the phrase was suggested by Baldwin's cousin Rudyard Kipling (17 March 1931)]””

Stanley Baldwin

About This Quote

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

Press power without responsibility is like a harlot’s privilege; it exploits society.

In simple terms: Irresponsible media power is dangerous.

Key Takeaway

Demand accountability from media owners.

Themes

media power responsibility

Mood

critical political

Type

ethical historical

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • politics
  • public policy

Key Concepts

political ethics press freedom

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance press freedom with responsibility?
  • What safeguards protect against media abuse?
A Different Perspective

Freedom of press is also vital.

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