Amount Quote by Steven Pinker
“Terrorist bombings, like rampage shootings, are events that maximize the amount of publicity per amount of damage. That's why people do them, because they know they will set off a media frenzy.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Better Angels of Our Nature, Steven Pinker, 2011
Violent acts are chosen for maximum media exposure rather than pure destruction.
In simple terms: People use terror to attract attention.
Consider the media impact before glorifying violence.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy debates
- journalism
- counterterrorism strategy
- public awareness campaigns
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does media coverage influence the frequency of such attacks?
- What responsibilities do journalists have?
Media attention can also inspire copycat actions, spreading harm.