Amount Quote by Keith Olbermann
“The key to terror, the key to terrorism, is not the act - but the fear of the act. That is why bin Laden and his deputies and his imitators are forever putting together videotaped statements and releasing virtual infomercials with dire threats and heart-stopping warnings. But why is the Republican Party imitating them? Bin Laden puts out what amounts to a commercial of fear; The Republicans put out what is unmistakable as a commercial of fear. The Republicans are paying to have the messages of bin Laden and the others broadcast into your home.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Television commentary, 2007
Fear is used as a weapon to manipulate public opinion and political agendas.
In simple terms: Fear drives politics and media.
Key Takeaway
Recognize fear tactics and seek factual sources.
Themes
politics
media
psychology
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- elections
- media consumption
- public debate
Key Concepts
propaganda
fearmongering
public persuasion
Questions to Reflect On
- How does fear influence your political views?
- What sources help you verify claims?
A Different Perspective
Fear can also mobilize positive action, not just manipulate.
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![“On so many levels [S.E. Cupp]’s a perfect demonstration of the necessity of the work Planned Parenthood does.” quote by Keith Olbermann](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a98/keith-olbermann-10325_demonstration_on-so-many-levels-s-e-cupp-s-a-perfect-d_133079.jpg)
![“What would you do, sir, if terrorists were killing 45,000 people every year in this country? Well, the current health care system, the insurance companies, and those who support them are doing just that. [...] Because they die individually because of disease and not disaster, [radio host] Neal…” quote by Keith Olbermann](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ce9/keith-olbermann-10325_america_what-would-you-do-sir-if-terrorists-were_411513.jpg)
