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Accounts Quote by Murray Edelman

“Political history is largely an account of mass violence and of the expenditure of vast resources to cope with mythical fears and hopes” quote by Murray Edelman
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“Political history is largely an account of mass violence and of the expenditure of vast resources to cope with mythical fears and hopes”

Murray Edelman

About This Quote

Source Book: The Symbolic Uses of Politics, 1964

Political narratives shape perceptions, driving violence and massive spending to address imagined fears.

In simple terms: Politics fuels fear and waste.

Key Takeaway

Critically examine political stories.

Themes

politics violence economics

Mood

analytical critical

Type

sociopolitical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy analysis
  • media consumption
  • public budgeting

Key Concepts

mythmaking resource allocation mass psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What myths influence current policies?
  • How can societies reduce fear‑driven spending?
A Different Perspective

Not all political actions are driven by myths.

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