When you make the claim that something on the Internet is…
![“When you make the claim that something on the Internet is going to be good for democracy, you often [hear], 'Are you talking about the thing with the singing cats?'” quote by Clay Shirky](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/7b5/clay-shirky-3364_be-good_when-you-make-the-claim-that-something-o_3124241.png)
“When you make the claim that something on the Internet is going to be good for democracy, you often [hear], 'Are you talking about the thing with the singing cats?'”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He cautions that praising the internet for democracy often meets skepticism and trivialization, like jokes about viral memes.
In simple terms: Internet benefits are often dismissed with jokes.
Key Takeaway
Recognize substance beyond memes.
Themes
technology
democracy
skepticism
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- online activism
- media literacy
- policy debates
Key Concepts
media influence
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we separate genuine benefits from hype?
- What evidence counters the “singing cats” dismissal?
A Different Perspective
Skepticism can overlook genuine positive impacts.