Commentators Quote by Susan Sontag
“The unanimously applauded, self-congratulatory bromides of a Soviet Party Congress seemed contemptible. The unanimity of the sanctimonious, reality-concealing rhetoric spouted by American officials and media commentators in recent days seems, well, unworthy of a mature democracy.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "Regarding the Pain of Others", 2003
Critiques the hollow, self‑congratulatory language of political rhetoric that masks truth and undermines democratic maturity.
In simple terms: Empty praise hides reality and weakens democracy.
Key Takeaway
Question and challenge superficial political language.
Themes
politics
media
democracy
truth
hypocrisy
Mood
skeptical
critical
concerned
Type
analytical
critical
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- news commentary
- public debates
- media analysis
Key Concepts
Rhetoric
public discourse
critical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does rhetoric shape public perception?
- What responsibilities do media have to avoid hollow praise?
A Different Perspective
Such rhetoric can also rally support when unexamined.
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