Art Quote by Edward R. Murrow
“The politician is . . . trained in the art of inexactitude. His words tend to be blunt or rounded, because if they have a cutting edge they may later return to wound him.”
About This Quote
Source Broadcast: 1950s TV news commentary
Politicians master vague language, avoiding sharp statements that could later harm them.
In simple terms: Politicians use vague speech to protect themselves.
Critically evaluate political language.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- press conferences
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can voters discern intent?
- What questions reveal clarity?
Vagueness can obscure truth.