"Confrontation is not a dirty word. Sometimes it's the best kind of journalism as long you don't confront people just for the sake of a confrontation"

Don Hewitt's quote "Confrontation is not a dirty word. Often it's the very best sort of journalism as long you don't confront people simply for the sake of a fight" highlights the nuanced role fight plays within the world of journalism. Hewitt, a prominent figure in broadcast journalism, highlights that while confrontation is typically viewed adversely, it holds considerable worth when employed sensibly and actively in journalism.

At its core, this quote highlights the efficiency of conflict in exposing facts and holding power accountable. In journalism, confronting people, particularly those in positions of authority or influence, can uncover important stories, expose surprise truths, and accentuate issues that may otherwise go undetected. Such confrontations, when performed morally and backed by extensive research, serve the general public interest by promoting transparency and accountability.

However, Hewitt alerts versus fight for its own sake. Ridiculous or provocative fight, without function and substance, dangers watering down journalistic stability and overshadowing the main goal of informing the general public. It can alienate audiences, taint reputations, and possibly distort the purpose of journalism by turning it into sensationalism or entertainment instead of a worthy venture focused on reality and social justice.

The balance Hewitt recommends is vital. Journalists must be discerning in their technique, choosing confrontation when it genuinely improves the story, lines up with the imperative of truth-telling, and serves a greater public good. Confrontation should be strategically released-- not as a technique to provoke or produce dispute for its own sake however as a tool to advance the understanding of complicated concerns.

Eventually, Hewitt's declaration strengthens the significance of ethical decision-making and responsibility in journalism. It encourages journalists to wield conflict wisely, guaranteeing it amplifies their role as the guardians of democracy and stewards of an educated society.