

Journalists and Their Shadows (w/ Patrick Lawrence) | The Chris Hedges Report
Jun 12, 2025
Patrick Lawrence, a seasoned journalist and writer, joins Chris Hedges to discuss the troubling state of contemporary journalism. He critiques the corporate takeover of the press, leading to a decline in integrity and a lack of context in reporting. Lawrence highlights how the media has shifted from independent observer to a mouthpiece for power, particularly since pivotal events like 9/11. He emphasizes the psychological toll on journalists and advocates for the importance of independent media in fostering deeper public understanding of complex issues.
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Journalists as Power Tools
- Journalist Patrick Lawrence explains the Cold War press became part of the power structure, delivering official narratives without independence.
- John Dewey said journalists should stand outside power to foster public debate and inform democratic decisions.
9-11 Killed Press Independence
- After 9-11, American media stopped publishing anything displeasing to the government and became outright propaganda.
- This marked the abrupt end of an independent press and the start of media as enlisted soldiers of the state.
Journalists' Psychological Shadows
- Journalists suffer psychological disintegration when forced to conform, losing integrity and becoming alienated from themselves.
- This internal shadow causes ethical compromises and declines in journalistic courage within corporate media.