Attitude Quote by Tom Rosenstiel
“To say that they are the enemy of the people, among the worst human beings on earth, it encourages and legitimizes an anger towards the press that, you know, I think, fosters this attitude.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Media Ethics Discussion, 2020
Labeling journalists as “enemy of the people” fuels public hostility and undermines trust in the press, encouraging aggression toward media professionals.
In simple terms: Calling press enemies incites anger and distrust.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and reject dehumanizing language.
Themes
media
trust
politics
free speech
Mood
angry
concerned
defensive
Type
political
critical
cautionary
When to use this quote
- political rallies
- social media debates
- newsroom meetings
- public forums
Key Concepts
propaganda
public opinion
democracy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape public perception of journalists?
- What alternatives exist to critique media without dehumanizing?
A Different Perspective
Such rhetoric can also be used to silence dissent and legitimize censorship.
