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Show Free press lights way for freedom "The time, it is to be hoped, is gone by, when any defense would be necessary of the 'liberty of the press' as one of the securities against corrupt or tyrannical ' governments," wrote John Stuart Mill in 1858. And modern history seems bear out the contention that a free press and totalitarianistic governments are incompatible. One of the first acts of all dictators is to sieze control of the nation's press as they move to crush dissent and extinguish the light of knowledge and understanding . generated by the free exchange of information - by freedom of the press. And yet it seems that the press still needs to defend itself, despite Mill's contention that modern society should understand the principle. Because that precious freedom of expression comes under attack daily in our society. Too often, it seems, individuals feel the only side of a story that needs telling is their side since, as far as they are concerned, that is the correct side. Such muzzling of expression is similar to dimming the lights. It creates a hazzard as opinions are formed and actions are taken based on an incomplete understanding of the circumstances. When we stumble around in a dimly lit room, our shins are sure to meet with disaster. Making decisions in a society where information is government-controlled will just as surely result in disaster, with consequences several more times as serious. Newspapers literally light freedom's Avay,-jcarrying information and ideas, comment and criticism, which . help define our society in a clear light. "Freedom of the Press ... is a foundation stone of American Liberty," said Pres. Herbert Hoover. We ! . should all work to keep that freedom strong. In doing so, we are protecting our own way of life. |