No one familiar with the history of this country can deny that congressional committees are useful. It is necessary to investigate before legislating, but the line between investigating and persecuting is a very fine one and the junior Senator from Wisconsin has stepped over it repeatedly.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Congressional committees are necessary for investigation but can cross into persecution if unchecked.
- In plain terms
- Investigations are good, but they shouldn't become harassment.
- What can you take from it?
- Balance investigation with fairness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Where is the line between inquiry and persecution?
- Are checks on power effective?
Another view
Some investigations are inherently aggressive by nature.
More from Edward R. Murrow
The only thing that counts is the right to know, to speak, to think - that, and the sanctity of the courts. Otherwise it's not America.
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