Altered Quote by Tom Stoppard
“The whole notion of journalism being an institution whose fundamental purpose is to educate and inform and even, one might say, elevate, has altered under commercial pressure, perhaps, into a different kind of purpose, which is to divert and distract and entertain.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Role of Journalism in Modern Society", 1995
Commercial pressures have shifted journalism from educating to entertaining and distracting audiences.
In simple terms: Journalism now often aims to entertain rather than inform.
Recognize media bias and seek diverse sources.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- news consumption
- media literacy
- critical thinking
- public discourse
- advertising influence
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does commercial pressure affect news credibility?
- What can individuals do to prioritize informative journalism?
Entertainment focus can undermine informed citizenship.