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About this quote

What does it mean?
Historically, people influenced society through actions, but now media and books shape how the world behaves.
In plain terms
Books used to follow the world, now they lead it.
What can you take from it?
Recognize how media shapes society.

Where it applies

  • publishing
  • politics
  • education

Putting it to work

  • consume media critically
  • write responsibly
  • track cultural shifts

Questions to consider

  • What books shape your world?
  • How has media changed influence?

Another view

People still act on the world in meaningful ways.

More from Joseph Joubert

  1. There is an admiration which is the daughter of knowledge.

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  2. They are like the clue in the labyrinth, or the compass in the night.

    Permalink to quote #77
  3. There is always some frivolity in excellent minds; they have wings to rise, but also stray.

    Permalink to quote #74

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