Journalism Quote by G. G. Coulton
““In every generation there have been matters which the general public is irresistibly tempted to ignore, partly through actual lack of information, but far more through indolence, or even through active dislike of inconvenient facts. In such cases, Parliament and Press are often under the subtlest temptations of all, and bear the heaviest guilt for their neglect of the common weal. In times of dangerous self-complacency, a nuisance may be most useful: indeed, it may become useful in proportion to its crying insistence.””
About This Quote
A critique of public indifference and media negligence, suggesting that nuisance can become useful when it forces attention.
In simple terms: Public neglect of facts can be countered by persistent nuisances.
Key Takeaway
Stay vigilant and demand accountability.
Themes
media
public responsibility
indifference
Mood
critical
urgent
Type
Journalism:1
Complacency Nuisance:0
Parliament Press:0
Nuisance Useful:1
Inconvenient Facts:1
Public Irresistibly:0
When to use this quote
- op‑ed
- academic paper
- lecture notes
Key Concepts
journalism ethics
civic duty
information access
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens combat media indifference?
- What role do “nuisances” play in exposing truth?
