He who dictates and formulates the words and phrases we use, he who is master of the press and radio, is master of the mind. Repeat mechanically your assumptions and suggestions, diminish the opportunity for communicating dissent and opposition. This is the formula for political conditioning of the masses.
Interpretation
The control of language influences thought and societal norms.
In this quote, Joost Meerloo emphasizes the powerful role of language and media in shaping public consciousness and opinion. He suggests that those who control the language—through the press and broadcasting—hold significant power over how ideas are expressed and received, effectively conditioning the masses to accept certain narratives while limiting dissenting views.
In practice
In a discussion on media influence, one could reference this quote to highlight the importance of critical media literacy.
Huts they made then, and fire, and skins for clothing, And a woman yielded to one man in wedlock... ... Common, to see the offspring they had made; The human race began to mellow then. Because of fire their shivering forms no longer Could bear the cold beneath the covering sky.
Words are but the vague shadows of the volumes we mean. Little audible links, they are, chaining together great inaudible feelings and purposes.
The unpredictable and the predetermined unfold together to make everything the way it is.
We should show life neither as it is or as it ought to be, but only as we see it in our dreams.
I have all the characteristics of a human being: blood, flesh, skin, hair; but not a single, clear, identifiable emotion, except for greed and disgust. Something horrible is happening inside of me and I don't know why. My nightly bloodlust has overflown into my days. I feel lethal, on the verge of frenzy. I think my mask of sanity is about to slip.
You climb to reach the summit, but once there, discover that all roads lead down.
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