Agenda free

[Bushwhacker]

If we say of a writer he's unbiased, apolitical, and agenda-free, what does it mean this "agenda-free"? May it mean he doesn't make commitments, don't get involved in any cause, ideal, or vindication?

Thank You :-D:up:

 

[stuartnz]

I'm not a teacher, but I'd say you're close to the meaning. However, rather than meaning that he doesn't get involved in any cause or ideal, I'd say being agenda-free means he's not promoting any particular cause in his writing. He may have his own opinions on a subject, and may be involved in causes related to that subject, but he does not promote or advertise that in his writings.

 

[Bushwhacker]

I'm not a teacher, but I'd say you're close to the meaning. However, rather than meaning that he doesn't get involved in any cause or ideal, I'd say being agenda-free means he's not promoting any particular cause in his writing. He may have his own opinions on a subject, and may be involved in causes related to that subject, but he does not promote or advertise that in his writings.

Thanks a lot for your attention. But, let me ask you for a word which could define more precisely all these nuances you bring in and that "agenda-free" may connote.

Very grateful again, :-D

 

[BobK]

:up: Originally, "agenda" meant (and still means) a list of things to discuss at a meeting. If someone particularly wanted something discussed, his secretary would say 'I'll put it on the agenda' [the implication being that this was a sure way to get it discussed].

So, figuratively, when we say someone 'has an agenda' it means that they have (possibly secret) intentions. "Agenda-free" is an extension of that idea.

b

 

[stuartnz]

Perhaps words like objective, dispassionate or neutral might be worth considering.

 

[Neillythere]

Although not a teacher, as a Brit, I would understand "Agenda-free" as meaning that he/she didn't have a "hidden agenda" i.e. didn't have any ulterior motive or undivulged plan behind what they were saying or doing.

See the reference below, from the Compact Oxford Dictionary:

AskOxford: Search Results
hidden agenda


• noun an ulterior motive or undivulged plan.