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We must remember always that accusation is not proof, and that conviction depends upon evidence and due process of law. We will not walk in fear, one of another. We will not be driven by fear into an age of unreason if we dig deep in our history and our doctrine. And remember that we are not descended from fearful men, not from men who feared to write, to associate, to speak, and to defend the causes that were for the moment, unpopular. This is no time for men who oppose Senator McCarthy’s methods to keep silent, or for those who approve. We can deny our heritage, and our history, but we cannot escape responsibility for the results. We proclaim ourselves indeed we are, defenders of freedom where ever it continues to exist in the world, but we cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home. The actions of the Jr. Senator from Wisconsin have caused alarm and dismay among our allies abroad, and given considerable comfort to our enemies. And whose fault is that? Not really his, he didn’t create this situation of fear, he merely exploited it, and rather successfully. Cassius was right, “the fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars, but in ourselves”.
Good night, and good luck."
:popcorn:
I believed 20 years ago, and I believe today... that mature Americans can engage in conversation and controversy the clash of ideas of ideas with communists anywhere in the world without becoming contaminated or converted. I believe that our faith, our conviction, our determination are stronger than theirs, that we can compete and successfully, not only in the area of bombs, but in the area of ideas. I have worked for CBS for more than 19 years. The company has subscribed fully to my integrity and responsibility as a broadcaster, and as a loyal American. I require no lectures from the Jr. Senator from Wisconsin as to the dangers or terrors of communism. Having searched my conscience and my files, I cannot contend that I have always been right, or wise, but I have attempted to pursue the truth with some diligence and to report it, even though as in this case I had been warned in advance that I would be subjected to the attentions of Senator McCarthy.
We shall hope to deal with matters of more vital interests of the country next week.
Good night, and good luck.
:popcorn:
“I began by saying that our history will be what we make it.
If we go on as we are, then history will take its revenge and retribution will not limp in catching up with it. Just once in a while let us exalt the importance of ideas and information. Let us dream to the extent of saying that on a given Sunday night, a time normally occupied by Ed Sullivan, is given over to a clinical survey of the state of American education. And a week or two later, the time usually used by Steve Allen, is devoted to a thorough going steady of American policy in the Middle East.
Would the corporate image of their respective sponsors be damaged? Would the shareholders rise up in their wrath and complain? Would anything happen? Other than a few million people would have received a little illumination on subjects that may well determine the future of this country, and therefore the future of the corporations.
To those who say that people wouldn’t look, they wouldn’t be interested, they’re too complacent, indifferent and insulated, I can only reply… There is, in one reporter’s opinion, considerable evidence against that contention.
But even if they are right, what have they got to lose? Because if they are right, and this instrument is good for nothing but to entertain, amuse and insulate, then the tube is flickering now and we will soon see that the whole struggle is lost.
This instrument can teach. It can illuminate, and yes, it can even inspire. But it can do so only to the extent that humans are determined to use it to those ends. Otherwise, it is merely wires and lights… in a box.
Good night, and good luck”
Ok, yea, I liked it. :)
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