Actor Quote by Walter Kirn
“The reason that last-ditch political maneuvering has become business as usual in Washington is that the actors involved are drunk on blame and are convinced that the voting public is, too. They count on outrage, thereby spreading numbness. They cherish the prospect of partisan fury, thereby inspiring nonpartisan disgust.”
About This Quote
Source Article: The Politics of Outrage, Washington Post, 2019
Political actors exploit blame and outrage, creating a cycle that dulls public sensitivity and fuels partisan anger.
In simple terms: Blame fuels endless political drama.
Seek truth beyond partisan outrage.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- news consumption
- voting
- community discussions
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does outrage affect your political engagement?
- What steps can reduce blame culture in politics?
Blame can also mobilize necessary reform; not all outrage is empty.