Meaning: This quote by Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, highlights the importance of good journalism in holding powerful individuals and institutions accountable. Assange emphasizes that good journalism should not shy away from confronting powerful abusers, and that doing so often elicits a negative reaction. He views controversy as a necessary and positive aspect of journalism, signaling the willingness to challenge authority and address issues that may be uncomfortable or contentious.

Julian Assange is a prominent figure in the world of journalism and activism, known for his role in founding WikiLeaks, an organization dedicated to publishing classified and sensitive information from anonymous sources. Throughout his career, Assange has been a controversial and polarizing figure, facing legal challenges and criticism from governments and media organizations around the world. His quote reflects his perspective on the role of journalism in exposing abuse of power and promoting transparency.

The quote underscores the fundamental principle of journalism as a watchdog, holding those in power accountable for their actions. In democratic societies, a free and independent press plays a crucial role in providing the public with information that can help them make informed decisions and scrutinize the actions of their leaders. This often involves investigating and reporting on misconduct, corruption, and abuse of power, even when it involves powerful individuals or institutions.

Assange's assertion that there is always a "bad reaction" when powerful abusers are taken on speaks to the potential backlash and resistance journalists may face when they challenge authority. This can manifest in various forms, including legal threats, smear campaigns, or efforts to discredit the journalists and their reporting. However, Assange suggests that such controversy is a necessary byproduct of meaningful journalism, as it indicates a willingness to confront difficult truths and disrupt the status quo.

The quote also reflects Assange's belief that controversy is an inherent and essential aspect of engaging in meaningful journalism. Rather than shying away from contentious issues, good journalism should actively seek out and address controversial topics, regardless of the potential backlash. By doing so, journalists can fulfill their responsibility to provide the public with a comprehensive and critical understanding of the world around them.

Assange's perspective on the role of journalism aligns with the broader ethos of investigative journalism, which often involves delving into complex and sensitive topics that may provoke strong reactions. It underscores the importance of journalistic independence and fearlessness in the face of powerful interests, as well as the commitment to uncovering the truth and advocating for transparency.

In conclusion, Julian Assange's quote encapsulates the critical role of good journalism in challenging powerful abusers and embracing controversy as an essential element of meaningful reporting. It emphasizes the responsibility of journalists to hold those in power accountable, even in the face of potential backlash. This quote serves as a reminder of the vital role that journalism plays in promoting transparency, accountability, and democratic values in society.