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Justice Quote by Martha Gellhorn

“What was new to our ears these days, and thrilling to hear, was the steadiness and justice of those who spoke, the abscence of panic and exaggeration the quiet insistence on legal processes as opposed to trial by suspicion. McCarthyism so repelled the English that they take special care not to be…” quote by Martha Gellhorn
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““What was new to our ears these days, and thrilling to hear, was the steadiness and justice of those who spoke, the abscence of panic and exaggeration the quiet insistence on legal processes as opposed to trial by suspicion. McCarthyism so repelled the English that they take special care not to be infected by it.””

Martha Gellhorn

About This Quote

Source Speech: Interview on McCarthyism, 1950s, United States

The quote warns that society should value calm, lawful procedures over fear‑driven accusations, as seen in the backlash against McCarthyism.

In simple terms: Stay calm, trust law, avoid panic.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize due process over hysteria.

Themes

justice law media politics history

Mood

cautious reflective critical

Type

historical political cautionary

When to use this quote

  • journalism
  • government hearings
  • public debates
  • educational curricula

Key Concepts

McCarthyism public discourse legal integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance swift response with legal safeguards?
  • When does caution become complacency?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook that some urgent threats require swift action beyond normal legal channels.

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