"The mainstream press and television do a very soft job of covering the press, either as corporate entities or as news organizations"

Sydney Schanberg's quote addresses the often-criticized relationship in between traditional media outlets and the entities that manage or influence them. At its core, this declaration recommends that mainstream media-- incorporating both print (press) and electronic kinds (tv)-- tends to work out a lax method when it comes to reporting on itself, whether considering the media as part of corporate corporations or examining its function as purveyors of news.

The term "soft job" indicates a propensity to manage such protection with an absence of rigor or crucial analysis. This might come from numerous elements. Firstly, there is the issue of dispute of interest. When wire service are owned by big corporate entities, they might shy away from investigating or slamming the bigger corporation's practices too deeply, therefore guaranteeing that coverage stays beneficial or at least neutral. This can result in self-censorship, where reporters avoid certain stories to safeguard their business parent's interests, thereby compromising journalistic integrity.

Secondly, Schanberg points to the possible reluctance within the market to turn the crucial lens inward. The journalistic community may refrain from scrutinizing its own members carefully due to professional camaraderie or fear of reciprocal criticism. This creates an environment where systemic problems within the market remain underreported, which can affect public understanding and trust in media.

Last but not least, the statement implicitly raises questions about accountability and transparency in journalism. If the entities accountable for holding others to account are not subject to the exact same scrutiny, it undermines the basic democratic role of the media. Feedback loops and guard dog mechanisms are necessary in guaranteeing media stays a sincere and independent pillar of democracy.

Schanberg's critique is a require more courageous and unbiased journalism that is willing to analyze its own structures and predispositions. It reminds both consumers and manufacturers of news that openness and self-scrutiny are crucial for the credibility and effectiveness of media organizations.