In the book "Conspiracy," author Ryan Holiday discusses the complexities of journalistic work and the emotional burden it carries. He suggests that if journalists constantly empathized with their subjects, it would make their roles exceedingly difficult. This quote highlights the importance of maintaining a certain detachment in journalism, allowing reporters to remain objective and fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

Holiday's exploration of this theme sheds light on the challenges faced by media professionals, especially in high-stakes stories like the one involving Peter Thiel and Gawker. By acknowledging the necessity of emotional distance, Holiday encourages a broader understanding of how journalists navigate the intricacies of truth, narrative, and the moral dilemmas they encounter in their reporting.