"We made only one real mistake. And even then we were right"
About this Quote
In this quote, Ben Bradlee, the legendary editor of The Washington Post during the Watergate scandal, encapsulates a complex reflection on the nature of decision-making, responsibility, and the pursuit of truth in journalism. The declaration, "We made only one genuine mistake. And even then we were right", brings a nuanced admission that acknowledges human fallibility while likewise asserting the integrity of intentions and actions.
Bradlee's words recommend a scenario where a vital decision or publication was later determined as an error, however one made with the best intentions or based on what was believed to be appropriate info at the time. This shows the difficult truth reporters often deal with: making difficult employ environments where info is insufficient or developing. It highlights the concept that while mistakes are unavoidable, particularly in high-stakes journalism, the commitment to looking for truth and acting in excellent faith remains paramount.
Furthermore, the quote highlights the significance of intention and ethical considerations in examining past actions. To state "even then we were right" is to stress that, regardless of the error, the underlying worths and objectives were aligned with the pursuit of fact. This conveys a much deeper belief in their objective and the responsible exercise of journalistic responsibilities. The expression suggests strength and a dedication to learning and growing from such experiences, keeping credibility and credibility.
In addition, Bradlee's assertion motivates introspection and humility-- acknowledging an error while defending the broader journalistic undertaking. His words act as a reminder that stability is not about always getting it best but about how one responds to errors. The capacity to acknowledge errors and still assert faith in one's ethical compass is a testimony to the strength and credibility of principled journalism. Therefore, the quote shows a balance between acknowledging human flaw and supporting a steadfast dedication to truth and duty in journalism.
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