The Hutchins Commission

The Hutchins Commission, officially known as the Commission on Freedom of the Press, was formed in 1947 to address concerns about the role of the media in a democratic society. It aimed to explore the responsibilities of the press, advocating that media should provide truthful information, serve the public interest, and promote democratic values. The commission emphasized that a free press is essential for informed citizenry, but it also recognized that with freedom comes the responsibility to avoid sensationalism and ensure fairness. Its findings influenced discussions about media ethics and regulation in the years that followed.