Meaning: Barbara Kruger, a renowned contemporary artist known for her bold and thought-provoking works, made this statement about the influence of media and the construction of consensus. The quote encapsulates Kruger's critical perspective on the role of news media in shaping public opinion and societal beliefs.

Kruger's work often explores themes of power, consumerism, and identity, and she frequently incorporates text and imagery from mass media to challenge viewers' perceptions. In this quote, she emphasizes the importance of being aware of the news and understanding what information is being disseminated to the public. By doing so, Kruger suggests that individuals can gain insight into the prevailing narratives and ideologies that influence collective thinking.

The phrase "what everybody else is looking at and believing" highlights the pervasive nature of media influence and the formation of consensus. Kruger suggests that the news serves as a barometer of public opinion, reflecting the topics and viewpoints that are being widely consumed and accepted. In this sense, consuming news media becomes an act of participation in the construction of consensus, as individuals absorb and internalize the information presented to them.

Kruger's assertion that "that's how consensus is constructed" underscores her belief in the power of media to shape public discourse and influence societal norms. She implies that the collective understanding of reality and truth is influenced by the information that is widely circulated and consumed. This aligns with her broader artistic practice, which often critiques the ways in which mass media perpetuates and reinforces dominant ideologies.

The quote also raises important questions about the role of the news media in shaping public perception and the potential for manipulation and distortion of information. Kruger's perspective invites contemplation on how the media can both reflect and perpetuate certain narratives, and how this process can impact the formation of consensus within society.

Overall, Barbara Kruger's quote offers a compelling insight into the complex interplay between media, consensus, and belief. Her words prompt us to consider the ways in which the news media influences our understanding of the world and the formation of shared beliefs. By encouraging critical engagement with the information presented to us, Kruger challenges us to be conscious consumers of media and to interrogate the construction of consensus in contemporary society.

In conclusion, Barbara Kruger's quote encapsulates her critical perspective on the influence of news media in shaping public opinion and the construction of consensus. By emphasizing the importance of understanding what is being widely consumed and believed, Kruger prompts us to consider the pervasive impact of media on collective thinking and societal beliefs. Her words serve as a powerful reminder of the need to critically engage with the information presented to us and to be mindful of the ways in which consensus is constructed through media narratives.