"Our job is only to hold up the mirror - to tell and show the public what has happened"

Walter Cronkite, a revered journalist and news anchor, emphasized the basic role of journalism in the above quote: "Our job is only to hold up the mirror - to tell and show the public what has happened". At its core, this statement strengthens the concept that journalism must serve as a reflection of truth, presenting realities and events properly and objectively to the public without distortion, bias, or embellishment.

Cronkite's metaphor of holding up a mirror suggests that reporters occupy the position of impartial observers who show the truth of the world back to society. Just as a mirror does not modify the image it shows, reporters are delegated with the task of presenting information as it genuinely occurs. This underscores a commitment to truthfulness and integrity, recommending that journalists should not infuse their own opinions or point of views into their reporting.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the role of journalism in informing and educating the general public. By accurately informing and revealing what has actually happened, journalists empower residents with the understanding they require to make educated decisions. This function is crucial in a democratic society because it supports openness and responsibility, especially when it concerns governmental and institutional actions.

Cronkite likewise discreetly suggests the limits of journalistic responsibility. The phrase "just to hold up the mirror" implies that journalists are not necessarily supporters or influencers; their main task is to inform. This distinction is crucial in maintaining the reliability and dependability of the media.

Nevertheless, while Cronkite's perfect stresses objectivity, modern journalism typically deals with challenges like sensationalism, bias, and misinformation. In spite of these challenges, Cronkite's vision of journalism as a mirror remains an essential standard. It functions as a pointer of the profession's noble purpose: to show the reality and foster an informed, engaged public. Thus, journalists need to continue making every effort to satisfy this suitable, making sure that their work stays a true reflection of the world.