Edward R Murrow: Still Relevant as Ever

Murrow, at CBS. Public domain.

“The obscure we see eventually. The completely obvious, it seems, takes longer.”
—Edward R. Murrow

After watching Good Night and Good Luck again recently, I dug up some of Edward R. Murrow's pithy insights on media, politics and public responsibility. (EdNote: With help from Wikiquote and ChatGPT.) 

Murrow (1908-1965) was a major influence in the early years of broadcast journalism. He cut his teeth as a war correspondent and was highly respected amongst his peers. His influence grew with the influence of television in the 1950's, due chiefly to his courage and his integrity.

Like Mencken, Chesterton and many others, his observations remain wholly relevant and timeless.

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Is it not possible that an unruly head of hair, an infectious smile, eyes that seem remarkable for the depths of their sincerity, a cultivated air of authority, may attract huge television audiences regardless of the violence that may be done to truth or objectivity?

--Murrow, Saturday Evening Post, 1949

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When the politicians complain that TV turns the proceedings into a circus, it should be made clear that the circus was already there, and that TV has merely demonstrated that not all the performers are well trained. --1959

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“We must not confuse dissent with disloyalty.”

A reminder that questioning authority or mainstream opinion is often a sign of civic strength, not betrayal—a message that resonates in polarized times. This quote brings to mind Bertrand Russell's "Free Thought and Official Propaganda" speech from a century ago.

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“A nation of sheep will beget a government of wolves.”

This is a warning against complacency and blind obedience. It speaks directly to issues of media literacy, discernment and civic engagement.

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“This instrument can teach, it can illuminate; yes, and it can even inspire. But it can do so only to the extent that humans are determined to use it to those ends.”

From his famous 1958 RTNDA speech about television, it is equally applicable to the internet and social media today.

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“The speed of communication is wonderful to behold. It is also true that speed can multiply the distribution of information that we know to be untrue.”

A prescient observation about the dangers of viral misinformation, decades before the internet and social media.

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“To be persuasive, we must be believable; to be believable, we must be credible; to be credible, we must be truthful.”

A framework for journalism, leadership, and public discourse—especially vital in an era of “fake news” accusations. Sadly, the lack of credibility of mainstream media was on full display in its coverup of Joe Biden's mental decline. How many times were we told he was "sharp as a tack"? The phony "weapons of mass destruction" justification for overthrowing Iraq in 2003 ought to have taught us something. Are we required to believe Iran is on the verge of having nukes just because our government and media tell us so?

“Difficulty is the excuse history never accepts.”

This is a reminder that passivity or inertia in the face of hard challenges—like injustice or censorship—won’t be vindicated by future generations. I think here of the Proverb, "The complacency of fools destroys them."

“Anyone who isn't confused doesn't really understand the situation.”

Murrow's dry wit was a hallmark of his reporting. Here he challenges us about the complexity of global or national crises—encouraging humility, not apathy.

“Good night, and good luck.”

Murrow's trademark sign-off.  Simple, sincere—and a quiet call for integrity in uncertain times.

Related Links
Edward R Murrow's "Wires and Lights in a Box"

Edward R Murrow Wikipedia page