Skip to content

Buying Quote by Norman Lear

“In the area we're discussing, leadership begins on Madison Avenue, on the desks and in the offices of people who spend hundreds of millions of dollars buying what will get them ratings.” quote by Norman Lear
Download Open image
“In the area we're discussing, leadership begins on Madison Avenue, on the desks and in the offices of people who spend hundreds of millions of dollars buying what will get them ratings.”

Norman Lear

About This Quote

Source Interview: TV Producer on Advertising Influence, 1990

Leadership in media is driven by the massive financial stakes of advertising, which dictate content and ratings.

In simple terms: Big money controls TV leadership.

Key Takeaway

Focus on audience demand and ad revenue.

Themes

media leadership advertising ratings economics

Mood

critical analytical

Type

media business

When to use this quote

  • Network programming
  • brand sponsorship
  • campaign planning
  • budget allocation

Key Concepts

Business strategy media studies political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do leaders have beyond profit?
  • How can content stay authentic under commercial pressure?
A Different Perspective

Creative integrity may be compromised by profit motives.

4.4 out of 5 (10 ratings)

More by Norman Lear

Explore all 89 Norman Lear quotes

More Buying quotes

Browse all 1,598 Buying quotes