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About this quote

What does it mean?
Milne argues free press corrects society, while Ruth distinguishes between the press and specific newspapers.
In plain terms
A free press helps fix society, but newspapers themselves can be annoying.
What can you take from it?
Free information systems are vital even if individual outlets are flawed.

Where it applies

  • media criticism
  • policy debate
  • journalism study

Putting it to work

  • support free press
  • critique specific outlets

Questions to consider

  • What is the role of press?
  • Can news be reliable?

Another view

It assumes a free press always leads to correction.

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  3. Wagner: There were printers getting more than journalists! Milne: Yes, I know, but you make it sound as if the natural order has been overthrown. Fish sing in …

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