Idea Ripper // ArchiveCards: 1555 [Live] | Updated: 2026-10-14
Card #c150IR // #c150Synthesis

The elite domination of the media and marginalization of dissidents that results from the operation of these filters occurs so naturally that media news people, frequently operating with complete integrity and goodwill, are able to convince themselves that they choose and interpret the news “objectively” and on the basis of professional news values.

— In our words · Source: Manufacturing Consent (Noam Chomsky & Edward S. Herman)

[Use when]

When “but reporters mean well” is used to dismiss media critique.

[Why it matters]

No conspiracy is required: sincere journalists can report objectively within limits they never chose.

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