Meaning: The quote "I think a newspaper should be provocative, stir 'em up, but you can't do that on television. It's just not on." by Rupert Murdoch, the media mogul and founder of News Corporation, encapsulates his perspective on the role of media in society and the differences between print and television media. Murdoch is known for his controversial and often provocative approach to journalism, and this quote reflects his belief in the power of newspapers to incite debate and challenge the status quo.

In this quote, Murdoch emphasizes the importance of provocation in the context of newspapers. He believes that newspapers should not only inform but also provoke and stimulate their readers. By using the term "stir 'em up," Murdoch suggests that newspapers should be disruptive and challenging, aiming to engage and provoke their audience to think critically about the issues presented to them. This aligns with his reputation for publishing content that is often divisive and controversial, with a focus on capturing the attention and interest of the public.

However, Murdoch also highlights the limitations of television as a medium for provocation. He states, "you can't do that on television. It's just not on," indicating that the nature of television as a visual and audio medium restricts its ability to provoke and challenge in the same way that newspapers can. Unlike newspapers, television has inherent limitations in terms of the depth and complexity of issues that can be explored, as well as the speed and format of content delivery. Murdoch's assertion reflects his belief in the unique power of newspapers to engage and provoke their audience in ways that television cannot.

Murdoch's perspective on the role of newspapers as provocative and challenging aligns with his approach to media ownership and his impact on the industry. Throughout his career, Murdoch has been known for establishing and acquiring newspapers and media outlets that reflect his own political and ideological viewpoints. His newspapers have often been criticized for their sensationalist and politically biased reporting, as well as their role in shaping public opinion on key issues.

In the context of contemporary media landscape, the quote can be seen as a reflection of the ongoing debate about the role of media in shaping public discourse. Murdoch's emphasis on provocation raises questions about the responsibilities of media organizations in presenting balanced and nuanced perspectives, as well as the potential impact of sensationalism and polarization on public opinion.

In conclusion, Rupert Murdoch's quote encapsulates his belief in the power of newspapers to provoke and challenge the public, while also highlighting the limitations of television as a medium for the same purpose. His perspective offers insights into the role of media in shaping public discourse and the ongoing debates about the responsibilities and impact of media organizations. Murdoch's approach to journalism and media ownership continues to be a subject of scrutiny and debate, making this quote a thought-provoking reflection of his influential role in the media industry.