Function Quote by L. Neil Smith
“The function of government is to provide you with service; the function of the media is to supply the Vaseline.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Function of Government and Media,” 1995
Government serves citizens; media often smooths harsh realities, acting like Vaseline.
In simple terms: Govt helps; media softens.
Key Takeaway
Critically assess media messages.
Themes
government
media
propaganda
Mood
analytical
skeptical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- news consumption
- political debates
- education curricula
Key Concepts
political theory
communication
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you discern media bias?
- When is media protection beneficial?
A Different Perspective
May generalize media roles.
![“[On her monologue as the thief 'Fontaine':] People always got things. People always want things. So I provide a service.” quote by Whoopi Goldberg](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/373/whoopi-goldberg-3323_monologues_on-her-monologue-as-the-thief-fontaine-p_184138.jpg)
![“[Islam] Leaves no room of human legislation in an Islamic state, because herein all legislative functions vest in God and the only function left for Muslims lies in their observance of the God-made law.” quote by Abul A'la Maududi](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/704/abul-a-la-maududi-51903_function_islam-leaves-no-room-of-human-legislatio_886.jpg)
