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About this quote

What does it mean?
Attacking a popular person makes them more visible, which hurts the attacker's goal.
In plain terms
Criticizing someone famous makes them even more famous.
What can you take from it?
Negative attention often reinforces popularity.

Where it applies

  • media analysis
  • public relations
  • celebrity culture

Putting it to work

  • manage public image
  • evaluate criticism impact

Questions to consider

  • Does controversy always boost visibility?

Another view

This does not account for reputational damage caused by serious accusations.

More from Karl Kraus

  1. How is the world ruled and how do wars start? Diplomats tell lies to journalists and then believe what they read.

    Permalink to quote #26

  2. I and my public understand each other very well: it does not hear what I say, and I don't say what it wants to hear.

    Permalink to quote #28

  3. Hate must make a man productive. Otherwise one might as well love.

    Permalink to quote #25

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