The Brass Check: A Study of American Journalism

In this incisive study the author steps into the courtroom of public opinion, presenting himself as a witness to the inner workings of American journalism. Drawing from personal encounters with newspapers, news wires and advertisers, he reveals how the flow of information can be distorted when the press becomes a profit‑driven machine. The opening sections lay out a compelling argument: if the channels that inform our society are compromised, the decisions we make as citizens are built on shaky ground.

The book then unpacks the many forces that shape the news—corporate ownership, the power of the Associated Press, relentless advertising pressure, and the sway of political and business interests. Through vivid anecdotes and sharp analysis, it shows how these elements often conspire to prioritize profit and agenda over truth. Listeners will come away with a clearer picture of why a free, independent press matters and what challenges it faces in an era of concentrated influence.