Apathy Quote by Paddy Chayefsky
““I would like at this moment to announce that I will be retiring from this program in two weeks' time because of poor ratings. Since this show is the only thing I had going for me in my life, I've decided to kill myself. I'm going to blow my brains out right on this program a week from today. So tune in next Tuesday. That should give the public relations people a week to promote the show. You ought to get a hell of a rating out of that. 50 share, easy.””
About This Quote
Source Film: Network, 1976
A character threatens suicide on live TV to boost ratings, exposing media exploitation.
In simple terms: A TV host plans suicide for ratings, showing media greed.
Key Takeaway
Critically examine media ethics.
Themes
media
ethics
suicide
ratings
Mood
critical
somber
Type
cautionary
dramatic
When to use this quote
- broadcast journalism
- mental health advocacy
- regulatory policy
Key Concepts
exploitation
public spectacle
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do broadcasters have to vulnerable audiences?
- How can we protect individuals from media pressure?
A Different Perspective
Risk of sensationalizing tragedy.
