Arthur Ochs Sulzberger Quotes

Powerful Arthur Ochs Sulzberger for Daily Growth

About Arthur Ochs Sulzberger

Arthur Ochs Sulzberger (1926-2012) was an American newspaper publisher who served as the Publisher of The New York Times from 1963 to 1992, ushering in a period of expansion and modernization for one of the world's most influential newspapers. Born on June 14, 1926, in Manhattan, New York City, Sulzberger was the grandson of Adolph Ochs, who had acquired The New York Times in 1896. He attended Phillips Academy and graduated from Yale University in 1948. After serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, Sulzberger joined The New York Times as a copyboy in 1950. In 1963, he succeeded his father as Publisher of The New York Times. During his tenure, Sulzberger oversaw significant changes, including the expansion of the newspaper's international coverage, the introduction of color sections, and the adoption of new technologies. He was also instrumental in the creation of The International Herald Tribune, a joint venture with The Washington Post Company. Sulzberger is remembered for his commitment to journalistic integrity and independence. He once famously said, "In times of war, rumors of war, political upheaval or any other kind of national emergency, it is our role to serve the public's need for accurate and reliable information." His leadership during challenging periods, such as the Watergate scandal and the Vietnam War, was marked by a steadfast dedication to unbiased reporting. After retiring from The New York Times in 1992, Sulzberger remained active in philanthropy and public service. He passed away on February 11, 2012. Arthur Ochs Sulzberger's legacy continues to influence the world of journalism, with his commitment to truth, integrity, and independent journalism serving as a guiding principle for The New York Times and news organizations around the globe.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"The Times is the newspaper of record in the United States."

The quote indicates that "The New York Times" has an authoritative, trusted, and respected position in journalism in the United States. It's considered a primary source of information, setting the standard for news reporting and serving as a reference point for events and issues happening within the country. This reputation derives from its long history, commitment to objective journalism, and influence on shaping public discourse.


"Journalism is the first rough draft of history."

Arthur Ochs Sulzberger's quote "Journalism is the first rough draft of history" emphasizes that journalistic reporting serves as the initial, unrefined account of events as they unfold. It underscores the role of journalists in recording the facts and perspectives related to current affairs for future examination, analysis, and understanding, much like a draft serves as an early version of a final work. This quote highlights the importance of journalism in documenting history, while also acknowledging that historical accounts may require revision or correction over time.


"Good journalism should be like a windowpane."

Arthur Ochs Sulzberger's quote, "Good journalism should be like a windowpane," suggests that the role of quality journalism is to provide a clear and unobstructed view into the world. This means that it should present facts accurately, without bias or distortion, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on reliable information. In essence, just as a windowpane gives us an undistorted perspective of the external world, good journalism offers an unadulterated, transparent view of events and issues in society.


"In journalism, as in life, there are no second acts."

This quote by Arthur Ochs Sulzberger suggests that opportunities for redemption or a fresh start are often limited in both life and journalism. It emphasizes the importance of getting things right the first time because, once mistakes or missteps are made, they can have lasting consequences with few chances for a do-over. In essence, it underscores the need to strive for excellence and integrity from the start.


"The role of journalism is to provide citizens with the information they need to make the best possible decisions about their lives and their leaders."

This quote underscores the fundamental purpose of journalism, which is to empower citizens by providing them with accurate, timely, and relevant information. By doing so, it enables individuals to be well-informed and make educated decisions on various aspects of their personal lives as well as in choosing their leaders. Essentially, journalism serves as a crucial pillar for promoting transparency, accountability, and active participation in society.


Anybody who claims to read the entire paper every day is either the world's fastest reader or the world's biggest liar.

- Arthur Ochs Sulzberger

Anybody, Read, Fastest, Claims

In dread fear of sentimentality, another thing true is not said-that for its staff the paper is a source of pride and, I do believe, an object of affection and-yes, love.

- Arthur Ochs Sulzberger

Love, Another, Staff, Object

Journalism's ultimate purpose is to inform the reader, to bring him each day a letter from home and never to permit the serving of special interests.

- Arthur Ochs Sulzberger

Purpose, Ultimate, Inform, Journalism

The Defense Department's plan to ban newspaper reporters from pool coverage of military operations is incredible. It reveals the administration to be out of touch with journalism, reality and the First Amendment.

- Arthur Ochs Sulzberger

Newspaper, Coverage, Department

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