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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

  • legislative oversight
  • political hearings
  • legal inquiries

Putting it to work

  • monitor investigations
  • protect rights

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

  1. 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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  2. We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty. We must remember always that accusation is not proof and that conviction depends upon evidence and due process of …

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  3. If none of us ever read a book that was 'dangerous,' had a friend who was 'different,' or joined an organization that advocated 'change,' we would all be just …

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