Meaning: This quote by journalist Robert Scheer sheds light on a common practice in the publishing industry where decisions are made primarily for business reasons rather than in the interest of the readers. Scheer's words reflect a sense of disillusionment with the way decisions are made in the publishing world, suggesting that the motivations behind such decisions are often different from what is publicly stated. The quote implies that the decision-making process is influenced by factors such as profitability and corporate clearance rather than a genuine concern for the readers or ethical obligations.

In the world of publishing, decisions about which books to publish, promote, or prioritize for distribution are typically made by publishers and other key decision-makers within the industry. These decisions can have far-reaching implications for the books that are available to the public and the ideas that are given a platform. Scheer's quote suggests that these decisions are often driven by factors such as the publisher's bottom line and corporate approval processes rather than a genuine desire to serve the interests of readers.

Scheer's reference to Chicago likely alludes to the publishing industry's close ties to the city of Chicago, which has historically been a major hub for publishing and printing. The mention of Chicago in the quote may imply that decisions made in the publishing world are not made in isolation but are subject to the influence of industry norms and practices that may not always align with the best interests of readers.

The quote also highlights the discrepancy between the public rhetoric of publishers and the underlying motivations behind their decisions. Scheer's use of the phrase "fine sounding words" suggests a degree of skepticism towards the public statements made by publishers regarding their commitment to readers and ethical obligations. This reflects a broader concern about the transparency and integrity of decision-making within the publishing industry.

Furthermore, Scheer's assertion that the decision has "nothing to do with" the relation to readers and their obligation implies a disconnect between the stated intentions of publishers and the actual motivations behind their decisions. This raises important questions about the extent to which commercial interests and corporate considerations influence the content that is made available to readers, and the implications of such influence for the diversity and quality of ideas that reach the public.

In summary, Robert Scheer's quote offers a critical perspective on the decision-making processes within the publishing industry, suggesting that decisions are often driven by business considerations and corporate clearance rather than a genuine commitment to serving the interests of readers. This quote invites readers to consider the broader dynamics at play in the publishing world and to critically assess the extent to which commercial interests may shape the information and ideas that are made available to the public.