At a recent meeting of the Institute of Journalists, it was proposed
that future candidates for membership should undergo an examination
to test their qualifications before election. Should the proposal
be adopted, no doubt some such paper as the following will be set
to those desirous of obtaining the right of adding "M.I.J." to their
names.
1. Would you as a Reporter venture to use such expressions as
"devouring element" or "destructive fluid" in sending in "flimsy" to a
London Daily Paper? State when you would consider yourself entitled to
describe yourself "a Special."
2. What are the rights of a Journalist at a free luncheon? If an
Editor finds himself present, should he return thanks for the Press
himself, or leave that duty in the hands of a bumptious Reporter.
3. Write an essay upon the Law of Libel, and say when a paper, (1)
should apologise, (2) fight it out, and, (3) settle it out of Court.
4. Define the difference between a "comment of public importance" and
a "puffing advertisement."
5. What is "log-rolling?" Give examples to illustrate the meaning of
the word.
6. Show, concisely, why the World could not revolve without the
Press, and why the Press would cease to be without your own personal
assistance.
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