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Cities Quote by Harry S. Truman

“On the one hand, the Republicans are telling industrial workers that the high cost of food in the cities is due to this government's farm policy. On the other hand, the Republicans are telling the farmers that the high cost of manufactured goods on the farm is due to this government's labor…” quote by Harry S. Truman
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“On the one hand, the Republicans are telling industrial workers that the high cost of food in the cities is due to this government's farm policy. On the other hand, the Republicans are telling the farmers that the high cost of manufactured goods on the farm is due to this government's labor policy. That's plain hokum. It's an old political trick: "If you can't convince 'em, confuse 'em." But this time it won't work.”

Harry S. Truman

About This Quote

Source Speech: Press Conference, 1948

Political rhetoric often blames opposing groups, creating confusion; the speaker warns that such tactics are ineffective now.

In simple terms: Politicians confuse to distract; it won’t work.

Key Takeaway

Question narratives that shift blame.

Themes

politics communication manipulation truth strategy

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • election campaigns
  • policy debates
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

propaganda critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you identify genuine policy failures?
  • What evidence reveals manipulation?
A Different Perspective

Complex issues may need nuanced solutions beyond blame.

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