Dictionary Quote by John Pilger
“Many journalists become very defensive when you suggest to them that they are anything but impartial and objective. The problem with those words "impartiality" and "objectivity" is that they have lost their dictionary meaning. They've been taken over. "Impartiality" and "objectivity" now mean the establishment point of view.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Documentary series "The War on Democracy", 2019
Journalists claim impartiality, but the terms have been co-opted to reflect dominant narratives, eroding true objectivity.
In simple terms: Words like impartiality now often just repeat the mainstream view.
Key Takeaway
Question the real meaning behind claimed neutrality.
Themes
media ethics
truth
power
language
bias
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
analytical
reflective
When to use this quote
- newsrooms
- press conferences
- media criticism
- public discourse
Key Concepts
journalism
ideology
semantic shift
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize genuine impartial reporting?
- What safeguards can restore true objectivity?
A Different Perspective
The terms can still be used sincerely in some contexts.
