"If those in charge of our society - politicians, corporate executives, and owners of press and television - can dominate our ideas, they will be secure in their power. They will not need soldiers patrolling the streets. We will control ourselves"

This quote by Howard Zinn speaks with the power of the media and those in positions of power in our society. He suggests that if those in charge of our society, such as politicians, business executives, and owners of press and television, can control the ideas that we are exposed to, then they will be safe and secure in their power. They will not need to rely on soldiers to patrol the streets, as we will be conditioned to control ourselves. This speaks to the power of the media to form our beliefs and viewpoints, and how those in power can utilize this to their benefit. It is a suggestion of the value of vital thinking and being aware of the messages we are exposed to, so that we can make educated decisions and not be manipulated by those in power.