Attention Quote by Paul Goodman
“We live increasingly in a system in which little direct attention is paid to the object, the function, the program, the task, the need; but immense attention to the role, the procedure, prestige, and profit.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Growing Up Absurd, Paul Goodman, 1960
Society prioritizes status and profit over genuine function and need, neglecting direct attention to objects and tasks.
In simple terms: People focus on prestige and profit rather than real purpose.
Shift focus to real needs and functions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- business strategy
- public policy
- personal productivity
- education reform
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does focusing on prestige affect outcomes?
- What would change if we valued function over profit?
Neglecting direct attention can reduce quality and effectiveness.