tailieunhanh - Speaking of a Free Press

A free press was born when America was born. It was not handed down or inherited. The concept of press freedom was deliberately constructed by the framers of our Constitution to instill the spirit of independence as an absolute, crucial ingredient in the creation, existence and survival of a free society. | Speaking of a Free Press 200 Years of Notable Quotations About Press Freedoms Published by American Newspaper Association Foundation (Now The Newspaper Association of America Foundation) 1987 Edited and Updated 2005 FOREWORD A free press was born when America was born. It was not handed down or inherited. The concept of press freedom was deliberately constructed by the framers of our Constitution to instill the spirit of independence as an absolute, crucial ingredient in the creation, existence and survival of a free society. The collection of quotations in this booklet reflects the beliefs of prominent people in our history who have championed freedom of the press – as well as some who have opposed it. Contemporary leaders also are included; their words reaffirm the important of press freedom in a truly free society. As we celebrate the bicentennial of the Constitution, these quotations summarize why we have fought and struggled for press freedom – and they reinforce the wisdom of our forefathers in framing the basic principles under which our nation functions. The meaning of it all is quite clear – a strong, free country and a strong, free press are inseparable. Jerry W. Friedheim Executive Vice President American Newspaper Publishers Association Foundation 1986 The quotations in this booklet have stood the test of time. They speak volumes about the value placed on a free press by our democratic society. We are living in a time when there are challenges to a free press not only from those who want to suppress information, but also from those who have become complacent about this valuable freedom. A recently released study by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation reports that nearly three-fourths of high school students tend to express little appreciation for the First Amendment. The report continues to say that most of their teachers, principals and parents have similar views. We encourage you to promote knowledge