Always Quote by Franklin Foer
“Of course, formulas always existed in journalism. When I was just getting into the business, 'Time' and 'Newsweek' knew if they could put Jesus' face on the cover that it would do really well on the newsstands. So every year, they would put Jesus' face on the newsstand. There was a formula there.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: “The Formula of News”, The New Yorker, 2015
Journalists have long used sensational imagery, like Jesus on covers, as a formula to boost sales, reflecting a pattern of exploiting familiar symbols for profit.
In simple terms: Media uses familiar symbols to sell stories.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and critique formulaic media tactics.
Themes
media
marketing
religion
ethics
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
critical
reflective
When to use this quote
- newspaper design
- cover art
- advertising campaigns
- media analysis
Key Concepts
symbolic manipulation
consumer psychology
news economics
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do audiences respond to familiar religious icons?
- What alternatives can attract readers ethically?
A Different Perspective
Relying on shock can erode trust and depth.
