We are somewhat amused by the hysteria manifest in the…
“We are somewhat amused by the hysteria manifest in the press at the suggestion by Gordon Liddy that if one is menaced by bad guys (particularly the ninja) one is wise to shoot for the head. That statement has got a whole bunch of journalists and commentators bleeding from the nose. One wonders why it should. Where else should you shoot a man if he is probably wearing an armored vest? If you decide to shoot you have made the big decision. Where you place your shot is merely a technical matter.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote satirically critiques media hysteria over extreme violent solutions, suggesting the real issue is decision-making, not target choice.
In simple terms: Media overreacts to extreme ideas; the real decision is whether to use force.
Key Takeaway
Consider the ethics before choosing violence.
Themes
media criticism
violence
decision making
ethics
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
satirical
commentary
When to use this quote
- political commentary
- journalism
- law enforcement
- public policy
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
risk assessment
public discourse
responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- Is the problem the act or the justification?
- How does media framing affect public perception?
A Different Perspective
Violence may be illegal or immoral despite technical feasibility.