Meaning: The quote "Fidelity to the subject's thought and to his characteristic way of expressing himself is the sine qua non of journalistic quotation" by Janet Malcolm emphasizes the essential requirement of accurately representing the thoughts and expressions of the subject in journalistic quoting. Janet Malcolm, an American writer and journalist, is known for her insightful commentary on the ethics and practices of journalism. This quote underscores the importance of maintaining the integrity of the subject's words and thoughts in journalistic reporting.

In the context of journalism, the term "fidelity" refers to faithfulness or accuracy in representing the subject's ideas and expressions. It implies a commitment to preserving the original meaning and nuances of the subject's words without distortion or manipulation. By emphasizing fidelity to the subject's thought and characteristic way of expressing themselves, Malcolm highlights the ethical responsibility of journalists to present quotations that truly reflect the speaker's intentions and unique voice.

The phrase "sine qua non" is a Latin term that translates to "without which, not" and is used to denote something that is indispensable or essential. In the context of journalistic quotation, Malcolm asserts that fidelity to the subject's thought and expression is not just desirable but absolutely necessary for ethical and responsible reporting. This principle aligns with the journalistic values of accuracy, fairness, and respect for the individuals being quoted.

When quoting an individual in a journalistic context, it is crucial to capture the essence of their thoughts and the distinctive manner in which they communicate. This requires careful consideration of the context in which the statements were made, the cultural and linguistic nuances involved, and the overall intent behind the words. By prioritizing fidelity to the subject's thought and expression, journalists can uphold the integrity of the original message and avoid misrepresentation or misinterpretation.

Moreover, honoring the characteristic way of expressing the subject is also a matter of respecting their individuality and identity. Everyone has a unique style of communication, influenced by their background, experiences, and personal traits. Journalistic quoting should strive to preserve these individual nuances, ensuring that the speaker's voice is faithfully conveyed to the audience. This approach fosters a more authentic and genuine representation of the subject, promoting empathy and understanding among readers or viewers.

In the age of digital media and rapid information dissemination, the integrity of journalistic quoting is increasingly challenged. With the prevalence of social media, sound bites, and selective editing, the risk of misquoting or distorting the original message has become a pressing concern. Janet Malcolm's quote serves as a poignant reminder of the ethical imperative to maintain fidelity to the subject's thought and expression amid the evolving landscape of journalism.

Furthermore, the quote underscores the power dynamics inherent in journalistic quoting. The act of selecting and presenting quotations from an interview or speech inherently involves editorial judgment. Journalists hold the responsibility to wield this power conscientiously, ensuring that their choices accurately reflect the subject's intended meaning and do not skew the narrative in a misleading manner.

In conclusion, Janet Malcolm's quote encapsulates the fundamental principle of journalistic quoting – the unwavering commitment to faithfully representing the subject's thought and characteristic expression. This principle serves as a guiding light for journalists, reminding them of their ethical duty to uphold accuracy, integrity, and respect in their reporting. By embracing fidelity to the subject's voice, journalists can elevate the quality of their work and contribute to a more transparent and empathetic media landscape.