The good citizen cannot well get along without the newspaper and magazine.  But he needs to keep in mind the fact that news items may be in error, and that the opinions expressed by editors and other writers usually represent the opinions of but a single group of people, which may be large or small, right or wrong.  In most cases these writers are sincere, but there is always the chance for error.  The intelligent citizen will not base his own opinions and actions solely on what he reads in one paper or magazine or book, but will seek to understand all sides of a question.  He is helped to do this by the great variety of publications available representing every shade of belief, and by the freedom of speech and of the press under our system of government.

THE CONTROL OF FREE SPEECH AND A FREE PRESS

Freedom of speech and of the press does not mean that a citizen may always say anything he pleases in public.  At no time has one the right to attack the character of another by false or malicious statements.  This constitutes slander, or libel, and may be punished by the courts.  In time of war freedom of speech and of the press may be restricted to an extent that would not be tolerated in time of peace, because if absolute freedom were permitted information might be made public that would be helpful to the enemy, and propaganda started that would be dangerous to the public safety.  But even in war time, the people of a democracy chafe under restrictions upon free speech and a free press, and it is often a delicate question to determine how far such restriction is justifiable or wise.

Make a report on the invention of the printing press.

Is there more than one “local paper” in your town or county?  Do these local papers take the same position in regard to public questions?  Do you read more than one?

What is the most influential newspaper in your state (ask at home)?  Why is it so influential?

What is the difference between a news story and an editorial?

Ask at home what newspaper editor it was who said, “Go West, young man.”  Also find out what you can about his influence as an editor.

Examine with care the newspapers you take at home and make a list of their different “departments” or “sections.”

What do you first look for in the newspaper when you read it?  Ask your father and mother and other members of the family what they first look for.

What is the value of cartoons in the newspaper?  Do you study them?  Do they convey a story to you?  Make a collection of cartoons that you think are particularly good, and explain what each means.

Is any propaganda being conducted now in the newspapers you read?  If so, explain what it is.

To what extent are newspaper and magazine advertisements useful in your home?

POST-OFFICES AND POST-ROADS