Conflict Quote by Gloria Steinem
“Reporters immediately push their interviewees into the most extreme version by saying in a shocked tone, 'Well, are you saying that ..." They're trying to make people be as hostile and opposed to each other as possible because they think only conflict is news.”
About This Quote
Source Article: Media Critique (unknown publication)
Interviewers often provoke extreme statements to create conflict, believing controversy drives news.
In simple terms: Interviewers push extremes for conflict, thinking it sells news.
Recognize and resist manipulative questioning.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political interviews
- talk shows
- debates
- press conferences
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can audiences discern genuine from provoked statements?
- What responsibilities do journalists have to avoid inciting hostility?
Such tactics can distort truth and harm discourse.