Attention Quote by Robert Higgs
“In U.S. history, war has served as an important diversionary tactic, causing the people at large to shift their attention away from the state's own criminality and toward real or fictitious devils abroad. Wars have therefore proved to be extremely useful in propping up the political class and preserving it from the public resistance and rebellion that might otherwise have arisen.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Political Economy of the United States, Robert Higgs, 2007
War distracts populations from domestic issues, allowing elites to maintain power and avoid dissent.
In simple terms: War diverts public focus, protecting elites.
Key Takeaway
Recognize diversionary tactics in politics.
Themes
politics
power
war
media
public opinion
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- election cycles
- media coverage
- public protests
- policy debates
Key Concepts
diversionary tactics
elite control
state legitimacy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do leaders use conflict to shift public attention?
- What alternatives exist to address state misconduct without war?
A Different Perspective
War may also create unintended social trauma and economic costs.
![“I went to a mosque in Philadelphia with [my wife] in December 24, 1999. And we we went to this mosque in Philly, and I just had such a strong reaction to the prayer. And I was really emotionally - I felt really grounded at that time. And so to be in this prayer and the imam is doing the prayer in…” quote by Mahershala Ali](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d31/mahershala-ali-6687_attention_i-went-to-a-mosque-in-philadelphia-with_3083.jpg)
