Chapter
The Beginnings of the Printed Word
01:40 - 12:08 (10:28)
With the advent of the printing press in the 15th century, writers used this new technology to express their criticisms of the church or the government, driving the notion of free speech as a political rallying cry. The hosts of the podcast share their appreciation for knowledge and power through their show.
Clips
The freedom of the press is a crucial pillar of a free society because it allows journalists to report on matters without restriction and get to the heart of important issues.
01:40 - 04:10 (02:30)
Summary
The freedom of the press is a crucial pillar of a free society because it allows journalists to report on matters without restriction and get to the heart of important issues. While there may be times where certain information may not need to be reported, overall, a free press is essential for a well-informed public.
ChapterThe Beginnings of the Printed Word
EpisodeHow Freedom of the Press Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
In the early days of printed media, criticisms of the church or government were often written by writers who were also printers.
04:10 - 09:12 (05:01)
Summary
In the early days of printed media, criticisms of the church or government were often written by writers who were also printers. Essayists John Trenchard and Thomas Gordon, writing under the pseudonym Cato, were early champions of the essential nature of free speech and the ability for citizens to communicate with each other.
ChapterThe Beginnings of the Printed Word
EpisodeHow Freedom of the Press Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Andrew Hamilton became known as "The Great Defender" for defending John Peter Zenger, a colonial printer, who was charged with libel for printing factual things about the colony's governor in New York.
09:12 - 12:08 (02:56)
Summary
Andrew Hamilton became known as "The Great Defender" for defending John Peter Zenger, a colonial printer, who was charged with libel for printing factual things about the colony's governor in New York. Despite Zenger's acquittal, his two original lawyers were disbarred by the judge for questioning his conflict of interest, and Hamilton replaced them to successfully defend Zenger.