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About this quote

What does it mean?
Both politicians and citizens use media to joke about each other in a free society.
In plain terms
People and politicians can joke about each other on TV.
What can you take from it?
A free society allows public mockery of power.

Where it applies

  • political campaigns
  • news shows
  • public debates

Putting it to work

  • encourage political satire
  • engage in civic humor
  • critique power publicly

Questions to consider

  • How does satire affect political accountability?
  • Is mocking leaders healthy for democracy?

Another view

Not all societies allow politicians to be mocked on air.

More from Groucho Marx

  1. If you've heard this story before, don't stop me, because I'd like to hear it again.

    Permalink to quote #82
  2. It isn't necessary to have relatives in Kansas City in order to be unhappy.

    Permalink to quote #84
  3. If you want to see a comic strip, you should see me in the shower.

    Permalink to quote #81

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