We need fearless criticism of dishonest men, and of honest men on any point where they go wrong; but even more do we need criticism which shall be truthful both in what it says and in what it leaves unsaid—truthful in words and truthful in the impression it designs to leave upon the readers’ or hearers’ minds.
In an essay discussing the importance of ethical public discourse, this passage advocates for criticism that is not only fearless but also rigorously truthful in both its explicit statements and its implied impressions.
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I want every labor man, every labor leader, every organized union man, to take the lead in denouncing crime or violence.
Like all other good citizens, I accept the result with entire good humor and contentment.
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