Journalism Quote by Noam Chomsky
““Then there are other media, too, their role is quite different: it's diversion... The purpose of those media is just to dull people's brains; to get them to watch national football... or get involved in astrology or fundamentalist stuff, just get them away, get them away from things that matter. And for that it's important to reduce their capacity to think.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Media Critique, 1995
The quote argues that certain media serve to distract and diminish critical thinking, steering people toward trivial or ideological content instead of substantive issues.
In simple terms: Some media distract and lower thinking.
Limit exposure to mind‑numbing media.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- watching sports
- reading astrology columns
- engaging with sensationalist news
- political campaigning
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does you media shape your priorities?
- What alternatives can you choose for deeper engagement?
Not all media are intentionally dull; some provide genuine information and community.