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Better a good journalist than a poor assassin.
Jean-Paul Sartre
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote suggests that it is more valuable to be skilled in a noble profession than to be incompetent in a harmful one.

Jean-Paul Sartre emphasizes the importance of choosing a career that contributes positively to society over one that inflicts harm, even if the latter might seem more dramatic or impactful. The contrast between a good journalist, who informs the public and has the potential to pursue truth, and a poor assassin, who fails at a morally reprehensible task, highlights the value of integrity and skill in one’s vocation.

Themes

JournalismEthicsProfessionsSkillMorality

In practice

Example use cases

This quote could be used in a speech about the importance of ethical careers.

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