Quotes With Meaning
I should go so far as to say that embedded in the surrealistic frame of a television news show is a theory of anticommunication, featuring a type of discourse that abandons logic, reason, sequence and rules of contradiction. In aesthetics, I believe the name given to this theory is Dadaism; in philosophy, nihilism; in psychiatry, schizophrenia. In the parlance of the theater, it is known as vaudeville.
I should go so far as to say that embedded in the surrealistic frame of a television news show is a theory of anticommunication, featuring a type of discourse that abandons logic, reason, sequence and rules of contradiction. In aesthetics, I believe the name given to this theory is Dadaism; in philosophy, nihilism; in psychiatry, schizophrenia. In the parlance of the theater, it is known as vaudeville.
Neil Postman critiques how television news operates with a chaotic style that disregards traditional communication norms like logic and coherence. He links this to Dadaism in art, nihilism in philosophy, and schizophrenia in psychiatry, suggesting that such forms of expression reflect a breakdown in rational discourse. The mention of vaudeville highlights the performative aspect of news, where entertainment often overshadows factual reporting. This distortion affects our understanding of reality and can lead to societal confusion. Ultimately, Postman's insight calls for critical thinking and awareness of how media shapes our perceptions of truth. Recognizing this can empower us to seek clarity and meaningful communication in our lives.