And that's the way it is

Definition

And that's the way it is is a phrase famously used by Walter Cronkite as a signature sign-off during his television news broadcasts. This phrase encapsulates the essence of journalistic integrity and a commitment to presenting the truth to the audience, regardless of public opinion or political pressure. It represents the idea of delivering news in a straightforward manner, reflecting Cronkite's reputation as 'the most trusted man in America' during his time as a news anchor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Walter Cronkite served as the anchor for CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981, making him a prominent figure in broadcast journalism.
2. The phrase 'And that's the way it is' became iconic and synonymous with Cronkite's style of news delivery, emphasizing clarity and honesty.
3. Cronkite often used this phrase at the end of his broadcasts to reinforce the factual nature of the news presented.
4. His sign-off not only conveyed news but also instilled a sense of reliability and authority, making audiences feel informed and secure.
5. This phrase has left a lasting legacy in journalism, representing a commitment to truth-telling that many journalists aspire to uphold today.

Review Questions

• How did Walter Cronkite's use of 'And that's the way it is' influence public perception of news during his broadcasting career?
  • 'And that's the way it is' significantly influenced public perception by reinforcing Cronkite's reputation as a trusted source of information. His consistent use of this phrase provided viewers with a sense of certainty and reliability in the news they received. This approach helped establish high standards for journalistic integrity, allowing audiences to trust that what they were being told was accurate and unbiased.
• Analyze the significance of Walter Cronkite's sign-off in the context of journalistic integrity and its impact on broadcast journalism.
  • 'And that's the way it is' became more than just a sign-off; it was a powerful statement about journalistic integrity. By using this phrase, Cronkite communicated that he was committed to presenting facts without sensationalism or bias. This approach raised expectations for broadcast journalism as a whole, encouraging future journalists to prioritize truthfulness and transparency in their reporting.
• Evaluate how Cronkite’s legacy, encapsulated by 'And that's the way it is,' continues to shape modern journalism practices today.
  • Cronkite’s legacy, embodied in 'And that's the way it is,' remains influential in shaping modern journalism practices. This phrase serves as a benchmark for journalistic integrity that many reporters strive to achieve. In an era of misinformation and rapidly changing media landscapes, his commitment to presenting clear and honest news remains a guiding principle for journalists seeking to earn public trust and maintain ethical standards in their work.

Related terms

Journalistic Integrity: The adherence to ethical standards and principles in journalism, including accuracy, fairness, and accountability.

Broadcast Journalism: A form of journalism that involves reporting news through audio and visual mediums, such as television and radio.

Public Trust: The confidence that the public has in news organizations and journalists to report news accurately and fairly.