Impact and Influence in Journalism and Urban Planning

The speaker reflects on the notion of impact, particularly in journalism, suggesting that believing one can significantly influence events is a path to madness or pomposity. They recount a meeting with urbanist Jane Jacobs, who had a notable influence on city planning, yet downplayed her impact. The speaker shares a personal story of an unintended impact in Kentucky and concludes that the idea of having a significant impact is often a pipe dream, preferring to bring small joys, like a smile to a reader on a bus.

What does the speaker believe about the impact of journalists?

• They should focus on entertainment.

• They have a significant influence on events.

• They often follow a path to madness.

• They are the main drivers of change.

Who is Jane Jacobs according to the speaker?

• A fictional character.

• A political leader.

• A renowned urbanist.

• A famous journalist.

What change did Jane Jacobs notice after her book was published?

• A new park was built.

• A church removed barbed wire from its gates.

• The city council was reformed.

• A new law was enacted.

What was the unintended impact the speaker had in Kentucky?

• A new law was passed.

• A school was built.

• A local election was influenced.

• A new newspaper was started.

What does the speaker hope to achieve with their work?

• To change government policies.

• To write a bestselling book.

• To become famous.

• To give someone a smile after a hard day.