Geraldo Rivera: 'The courage in journalism is sticking up for the unpopular, not the popular.'

The courage in journalism is sticking up for the unpopular, not the popular.

In his quote, Geraldo Rivera captures the essence of true journalistic courage – standing up for the unpopular rather than simply going along with popular opinions. This perspective challenges journalists not to be swayed by public opinion but to fulfill their responsibility of seeking and reporting the truth, even when it may not be well-received. Rivera's words convey the importance of upholding integrity in the field of journalism, where the pursuit of truth should always prevail over popular sentiment. However, beyond the surface meaning of this quote lies a philosophical concept that adds depth and interest to our understanding of the role and impact of journalism in society.One cannot help but think of the concept of moral courage when considering Geraldo Rivera's quote. Moral courage, as coined by the philosopher Aristotle, is the act of standing up for what is right and just, even in the face of adversity or opposition. It refers to the ability to do what is morally right, regardless of the prevailing norms or social pressures. This concept aligns with Rivera's idea that true journalistic courage lies in advocating for the unpopular, as it requires journalists to have the moral courage to question popular narratives and challenge the status quo.In contrast, it is easy for journalists to be swayed by the allure of popularity and public approval. The media industry, like any other, can be influenced by trends, ratings, and financial incentives. In an era of sensationalism and clickbait, journalism that caters to popular demand rather than upholding ethical standards may garner more attention and financial success. However, this compromises the essence of true journalism, which is, at its core, a service to the public through the pursuit of truth and the dissemination of factual information.The importance of sticking up for the unpopular becomes evident when we examine historical events where traditional perspectives were challenged and new narratives emerged. Without the courage of journalists who dared to question prevailing opinions and expose uncomfortable truths, important social, political, and cultural changes may not have occurred. These journalists were often met with resistance, disapproval, and even hostility from those who held power or profited from the status quo. Yet, it was their determination to uphold the values of journalism that pushed society forward.In modern times, the power of journalism to influence and shape public opinion cannot be overstated. Media outlets have the ability to shape narratives, create awareness, and hold individuals, organizations, and governments accountable. This power must be wielded responsibly and ethically. When journalists prioritize the popular over the unpopular, they run the risk of amplifying misinformation, catering to biases, and failing in their duty to provide an objective and balanced account of events.Moreover, it is through sticking up for the unpopular that journalists can shed light on marginalized voices, expose injustice, and offer nuanced perspectives that challenge mainstream narratives. Their commitment to uncovering uncomfortable truths promotes dialogue, critical thinking, and, ultimately, leads to a more informed and empathetic society.In conclusion, Geraldo Rivera's quote eloquently summarizes the essence of journalistic courage – the dedication to speaking up for the unpopular rather than blindly following popular opinions. By doing so, journalists exercise moral courage, challenging prevailing norms and advocating for what is right, just, and true. Embracing this mindset is crucial in upholding the authenticity and integrity of journalism, as well as fostering a more informed and equitable society. Let us not forget the impact media has on shaping public perception and the responsibility that comes with that influence. True courage in journalism lies in embracing the unpopular, as it is there that the seeds of positive change are often sown.