Skip to content

In fast-moving, progress-conscious America, the consumer…

“In fast-moving, progress-conscious America, the consumer expects to be dizzied by progress. If he could completely understand advertising jargon he would be badly disappointed. The half-intelligibility which we expect, or even hope, to find in the latest product language personally reassures each…” quote by Daniel J. Boorstin
Download Open image
“In fast-moving, progress-conscious America, the consumer expects to be dizzied by progress. If he could completely understand advertising jargon he would be badly disappointed. The half-intelligibility which we expect, or even hope, to find in the latest product language personally reassures each of us that progress is being made: that the pace exceeds our ability to follow.”

Daniel J. Boorstin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Consumers accept confusing, jargon‑filled marketing because it signals rapid progress, even if they don’t fully understand it.

In simple terms: People like complex ads because they feel modern.

Key Takeaway

Question marketing clarity.

Themes

consumer culture marketing progress communication

Mood

critical analytical

Type

cultural media

When to use this quote

  • product launches
  • tech conferences
  • advertising campaigns

Key Concepts

pseudo‑events information overload perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you prefer simple or sophisticated ads?
  • How does jargon affect your buying decisions?
A Different Perspective

Complexity can breed mistrust.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Daniel J. Boorstin

Explore all 140 Daniel J. Boorstin quotes

More Ability quotes

Browse all 9,990 Ability quotes