The bigger the information media, the less courage and freedom they allow. Bigness means weakness.

Sevareid is warning that as news organizations grow larger—economically, institutionally, or in audience reach—they often become more risk-averse. Size can bring dependence on advertisers, corporate owners, political access, and bureaucratic routines, all of which can discourage dissenting voices and bold reporting. The paradox he points to is that “bigness,” usually associated with power, may actually produce “weakness” in the form of timidity and conformity: large media may protect their brand and relationships rather than pursue uncomfortable truths. The quote thus functions as a critique of media consolidation and a defense of smaller, more independent journalism as better able to sustain courage and freedom.