‘This is a war of propaganda’: John Pilger on Ukraine and Assange | Talking Post with Yonden Lhatoo
South China Morning Post・15 minutes read
John Pilger discusses war, propaganda, and the challenges in journalism while emphasizing the importance of historical context and skepticism in media consumption. He expresses concern for Julian Assange and predicts little change in Australian foreign policy, highlighting the decline in spaces for truthful journalism and the dangers of potential conflicts between the US-led coalition and China.
Insights
- John Pilger stresses the prevalence of biased coverage in Western media regarding the conflict in Ukraine, highlighting the importance of skepticism in media consumption and the lack of empathy in war reporting.
- Pilger expresses grave concerns about the potential conflict between the US-led coalition and China, emphasizing the dangers it poses, while also lamenting the lack of action from the Australian government in protecting Julian Assange, a political prisoner facing extradition to the US.
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Recent questions
Who is John Pilger?
An Australian journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker.
What does John Pilger emphasize in media consumption?
The need for skepticism and lack of empathy.
What are John Pilger's concerns regarding Australian foreign policy?
Little change under the new Labor government.
What is John Pilger's stance on the tensions between the US-led coalition and China?
Emphasizes the danger of potential conflict.
What drives John Pilger's commitment to journalism?
Passion for truth and the profession's importance.
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Summary
00:00
John Pilger: Truth in Journalism and Advocacy
- John Pilger is an Australian journalist, author, and documentary filmmaker known for his dedication to truth and civil disobedience in journalism.
- He discusses various topics, including the war in Ukraine, the plight of Julian Assange, and the importance of historical context in geopolitics.
- Pilger highlights the war of propaganda surrounding the conflict in Ukraine and the biased coverage in Western media.
- He emphasizes the need for skepticism in media consumption and the lack of empathy in reporting on war.
- Pilger reflects on the changes in mainstream media over the years, noting a decline in spaces for truthful journalism.
- He predicts little change in Australian foreign policy under the new Labor government, aligning closely with the US.
- The discussion shifts to the tensions between the US-led coalition and China, with Pilger emphasizing the danger of a potential conflict.
- Pilger expresses concern for Julian Assange, a political prisoner facing extradition to the US, and the lack of action from the Australian government to protect him.
- Despite facing criticism and attacks, Pilger remains committed to journalism, driven by a passion for the truth and the importance of the profession.
- He acknowledges the challenges and moments of doubt but underscores the addictive nature of journalism and its vital role in society.
18:49
Journalists strive for truth and understanding.
- Journalists have a responsibility to provide their audience with as much truth as possible, even if the whole truth is rarely achievable, as demonstrated by the speaker's experience with audience appreciation and understanding.
