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A free and independent press is essential to the health of a functioning democracy. It serves to inform the voting public on matters relevant to its well-being. Why they've stopped doing that is a mystery. I mean, 300 camera crews outside a courthouse to see what Kobe Bryant is wearing when the judge sets his hearing date, while false information used to send our country to war goes unchecked? What the fuck happened?

Jon Stewart#59

MediaJournalismDemocracyPress

About this quote

What does it mean?
Stewart criticizes the press for prioritizing celebrity gossip over critical national security information.
In plain terms
The media focuses on trivial stories instead of important news.
What can you take from it?
Media priorities should align with public interest.

Where it applies

  • discussing media coverage
  • evaluating news value

Putting it to work

  • critiquing news outlets
  • advocating for accountability

Questions to consider

  • What makes news important?
  • How should media prioritize?

Another view

It assumes all journalists ignore facts equally.

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