In a candid interview with 'The Sunday Times', Actor Denzel Washington shares his personal insights on American politics, emphasizing the manipulative tactics of both parties in the information age. He reflected on his career, noting both successes and failures, while urging awareness of political manipulation.
- Denzel Washington speaks out on political manipulation
- THESE are his insights from his own career journey
- Denzel spoke on the impact of the information age
Denzel Washington on Political Manipulation
Denzel Washington, the acclaimed Oscar-winning actor, recently voiced his concerns about the political landscape in the United States. He highlighted the manipulative tactics employed by both political parties. Washington's reflections come at a time when the world is increasingly influenced by the information age.
"You know, it’s so easy to stand outside America and say this and that," Washington said in response.
"Turn around, you know? Pick a country. Any one. It’s all politics. All promises unkept. And now with the information age the way it is — if anything — left, right, whatever had better learn how to use those tools to manipulate the people. There was a great line in the first movie I did, [1981’s] ‘Carbon Copy’: ‘Power to the people? Yeah, they had it once — it was called the Stone Age.’"
His words resonate deeply with the current state of affairs, where information is a powerful tool used to sway public opinion.
During the interview, Washington referenced a line from the upcoming film 'Gladiator II,' in which he stars: "Empires fall, so do emperors." This phrase, as noted by editor Jonathan Dean, seems particularly relevant in today's political climate.
He added, "We’re all slaves to information now. We really are. We’re all slaves. So whatever you feel about the leaders, like this guy’s crazy or the other one is sane, you’d better realize you’re being manipulated by both sides. Period." Washington ended the thought by saying, "Yeah. So go to the movies."
His comments underscore the pervasive influence of information and how it can be used to manipulate perceptions, regardless of political affiliation.
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Washington discussed both the highs and lows. After his role in 'Malcolm X' in 1992, he admitted to making some less successful films in the 1990s, stating, "After [1992’s] ‘Malcolm X’ I made some real clunkers."
Despite these setbacks, Washington's career flourished in the 2000s with notable films like 'The Hurricane' and 'Training Day,' the latter earning him his second Academy Award. He reflected on this period as one of earning, driven by responsibilities and the need to provide for his family.
"So, 2000 …" he pondered. "Well, in life, you learn, earn and then you return — as in give back. So if your life is 90 years long, up until 30 you learn and from 30 to 60 you earn. So in that era I was earning. With a great agent, my career built into making money and so the earning kicked in and then life also kicked in, with bills, four kids and a house."
Washington's observations extend beyond politics to the broader societal impact of the information age. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the manipulation by both political sides, urging people to remain vigilant.
Also interesting:
His statement, "Yeah. So go to the movies," suggests a respite from the overwhelming influence of information and a call to find solace in entertainment. Washington's insights serve as a reminder of the power of information and the need to critically evaluate the sources and motives behind it.