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About Quote by Jim Lehrer

“Well, I don't know about objectivity, but I know for certain that it's always possible for a professional journalist who understands what he or she's up to to be fair, and that's the key word. Fairness to individuals, fairness to ideas, and to issues and whatever - that is critical, and that is…” quote by Jim Lehrer
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“Well, I don't know about objectivity, but I know for certain that it's always possible for a professional journalist who understands what he or she's up to to be fair, and that's the key word. Fairness to individuals, fairness to ideas, and to issues and whatever - that is critical, and that is also part and parcel of what the job.”

Jim Lehrer

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks on Journalism Ethics, Jim Lehrer, 1995

A professional journalist can be fair by understanding their role and applying fairness to people, ideas, and issues, which is essential to the job.

In simple terms: Journalists can be fair if they know their duty.

Key Takeaway

Apply fairness consistently in reporting.

Themes

journalism ethics fairness professionalism

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

advice ethical

When to use this quote

  • newsrooms
  • editorial meetings
  • public statements
  • media training

Key Concepts

objectivity integrity responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure fairness when personal views differ?
  • What safeguards protect journalistic integrity?
A Different Perspective

Fairness may be compromised by personal bias or external pressure.

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