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The usual people tried to claim responsibility. First the…

“The usual people tried to claim responsibility. First the IRA , then the PLO and the Gas Board. Even British Nuclear Fuels rushed out a statement to the effect that the situation was completely under control, that it was a one in a million chance, that there was hardly any radioactive leakage at…” quote by Douglas Adams
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“The usual people tried to claim responsibility. First the IRA , then the PLO and the Gas Board. Even British Nuclear Fuels rushed out a statement to the effect that the situation was completely under control, that it was a one in a million chance, that there was hardly any radioactive leakage at all, and that the site of the explosion would make a nice location for a day out with the kids and a picnic, before finally having to admit that it wasn't actually anything to do with them at all.”

Douglas Adams

About This Quote

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

The passage satirically lists various entities blamed for a disaster, highlighting absurdity of shifting responsibility and bureaucratic denial.

In simple terms: People keep blaming others for a crisis, even when it's not their fault.

Key Takeaway

Question who truly bears responsibility.

Themes

responsibility bureaucracy media satire accountability

Mood

ironic critical

Type

political social commentary

When to use this quote

  • government statements
  • corporate press releases
  • media coverage
  • public debates

Key Concepts

public relations crisis management political spin

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who is actually accountable?
  • How does denial affect public safety?
A Different Perspective

Denial can mask real risks and delay solutions.

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