Skip to content

American Quote by Elmer Davis

“The American public has a right to know what's going on.” quote by Elmer Davis
Download Open image
“The American public has a right to know what's going on.”

Elmer Davis

About This Quote

Source Speech: Broadcast on Freedom of Information, 1945

The public deserves transparency from institutions, ensuring democracy and accountability

In simple terms: People should know what’s happening around them

Key Takeaway

Demand openness from authorities

Themes

democracy accountability transparency rights public interest

Mood

hopeful assertive informed

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • policy making
  • community activism

Key Concepts

freedom of press government oversight civic engagement

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does transparency strengthen democracy?
  • What limits, if any, should exist on public knowledge?
A Different Perspective

Opposition may claim security risks or overload of information

3.0 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Elmer Davis

Explore all 30 Elmer Davis quotes

More American quotes

Browse all 7,717 American quotes