Question 8
ComprehensionJAMB 1978 Passage B
The endeavour to maintain proper standards of fairness in journalism must be pursued. It is fatally easy for the journalist to deviate from the straight path. There is his natural desire to 'make a story' and insidious temptation to twist facts to square with his paper's policy. Both are as indefensible as the framing of misleading headlines for the sake of effect. The conscientious journalist must check any tendency to bias, and guard against the dangers inherent in personal antipathies or friendships, and in traditional opposition between rival schools of thought. When a political opponent, whose stupidity habitually provokes attack, makes an effective speech, honesty requires that he be given credit for it. Where personal relationships might make it easier and more congenial to keep silent than to criticize, the journalist must never forget his duty to the public and the supreme importance of recording the truth.
'Insidious' (line 2) means
- A.subtle
- B.wicked
- C.natural
- D.unusual
- E.wild
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: A (subtle)
Explanation
Something insidious works in a quiet, hidden way that you hardly notice. 'Subtle' is the closest meaning.