Fairness is not an attitude. It's a professional skill that must be developed and exercised.

The quote by Brit Hume, "Fairness is not an attitude. It's a professional skill that must be developed and exercised," emphasizes that fairness is not simply a matter of personal opinion or passive belief, but rather a deliberate and practiced professional discipline. Hume argues that being fair—especially in professions like journalism, law, or leadership—requires consistent effort, self-awareness, and judgment. It's not about how someone feels; it's about how they act and make decisions with integrity and balance.

Brit Hume, a veteran journalist and political commentator, is known for his long career at ABC News and Fox News. Throughout his reporting and editorial work, he often addressed the importance of objectivity, credibility, and journalistic standards. This quote likely stems from his reflections on the role of the media, where bias can easily creep in if professionals treat fairness as a casual attitude rather than a deliberate skill to be honed.

The distinction Hume makes between attitude and skill is crucial. An attitude is passive—it’s a way of thinking or feeling—but a skill involves ongoing practice, training, and accountability. In fields where decisions impact others or influence public perception, fairness must be applied actively and consciously. It means listening to all sides, avoiding favoritism, and striving to be impartial, even when it's difficult.

Ultimately, Hume’s quote serves as a reminder that professionalism demands more than good intentions. It calls for the continuous development of the ability to remain neutral, ethical, and responsible. By framing fairness as a skill, Hume challenges individuals to treat it as a serious and essential part of their professional identity, not just a moral ideal.