When the masters of industry pay such sums for a…
“When the masters of industry pay such sums for a newspaper, they buy not merely the building and the presses and the name; they buy what they call the "good-will"- that is, they buy you. And they proceed to change your whole psychology - everything that you believe about life. You might object to it, if you knew; but they do their work so subtly that you never guess what is happening to you!”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Wealthy owners purchase media to control public perception, shaping beliefs and attitudes without overt coercion.
In simple terms: Owners buy influence over readers.
Key Takeaway
Beware hidden media manipulation.
Themes
media control
psychology
power
propaganda
trust
Mood
cautious
critical
inquisitive
Type
analytical
warning
insightful
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- advertising
- news consumption
- corporate branding
Key Concepts
social engineering
mass persuasion
elite influence
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify the truth of what you read?
- What sources challenge dominant narratives?
A Different Perspective
Subtle influence can be resisted through critical thinking and diverse sources.