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Abandon Quote by Thomas Jefferson

“But the fact being once established, that the press is impotent when it abandons itself to falsehood, I leave to others to restore it to its strength, by recalling it within the pale of truth. Within that, it is a noble institution, equally the friend of science and of civil liberty.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“But the fact being once established, that the press is impotent when it abandons itself to falsehood, I leave to others to restore it to its strength, by recalling it within the pale of truth. Within that, it is a noble institution, equally the friend of science and of civil liberty.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

Source Letter to James Madison, 1790

Press loses credibility when it spreads falsehoods; truth restores its noble role supporting science and liberty.

In simple terms: Truthful press upholds science and freedom.

Key Takeaway

Promote truth and accountability in media.

Themes

media truth science liberty

Mood

critical concerned

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • news reporting
  • academic publishing
  • public policy
  • social media platforms

Key Concepts

journalism ethics information integrity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What mechanisms can safeguard media integrity?
  • How can individuals discern truth from falsehood?
A Different Perspective

Press may be influenced by political or commercial pressures, compromising truth.

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