A Vindication of the Press

"A Vindication of the Press" by Daniel Defoe is an early 18th-century writing that champions the freedom and importance of the press, while also questioning the rising trend of literary critique. It argues that writing is crucial for protecting people's freedoms and preventing oppression, all while addressing criticism of writers at the time. The writing is broken into three main ideas. First, it argues that writing is needed to grow knowledge and religion, highlighting its importance to both government and intellectual work. Then, it critiques criticism, worrying about the way mean reviews can stop new writers and create jealousy on the part of established authors. Defoe also talks about what makes a good author, pointing out the value of talent over education. Overall, it supports working writers, acknowledging that they must create works to live and highlighting the press' job in encouraging open discussion.