"Some people have much more pull than other people. But when I say that the public has ultimate responsibility, I'm not saying it in a moral sense. I'm just saying it in the sense of what is it that's really going to bring change"

This quote by Jared Diamond is referring to the power characteristics between the public and those in positions of authority. He is suggesting that while some individuals might have more impact than others, it is ultimately the public who has the power to produce modification. He is not indicating that the general public has a moral obligation to do so, but rather that it is the public's responsibility to make the necessary modifications. This is because the public has the power to influence those in positions of authority and to develop the essential conditions for change. Diamond is highlighting the importance of the public's function in developing favorable change in society.