BREAD AND CIRCUSES Meaning and
Definition
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Bread and circuses is a phrase derived from ancient Rome, referring to a political strategy employed by the ruling class to appease and distract the general population by providing them with food and entertainment. The term is often used metaphorically to describe a government's attempt to satisfy and divert the public's attention from important issues or social problems through superficial means.
In its literal sense, "bread and circuses" implies that the rulers would provide free wheat and bread to the citizens during times of political unrest or food scarcity, in order to prevent social upheaval and maintain control. Additionally, lavish spectacles, such as gladiatorial contests or chariot races, were organized as public entertainment to keep the masses entertained and pacified.
However, the phrase has evolved beyond its historical context and is now broadly employed to criticize modern governmental policies that prioritize the provision of superficial benefits or distractions over addressing substantive issues. It highlights a cynical perspective, suggesting that leaders may use entertainment, consumerism, or other superficial provisions to placate the masses and divert their attention from deeper concerns, such as inequality, corruption, or political misconduct.
Overall, bread and circuses encapsulates the concept of using sustenance and entertainment as a means of social control, focusing on appeasing the public rather than addressing underlying problems.
Common Misspellings for BREAD AND CIRCUSES
- vread and circuses
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Idioms with the word BREAD AND CIRCUSES
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bread and circuses
"Bread and circuses" refers to policies or actions intended to keep the general population happy or content, often through the provision of basic necessities (bread) and entertainment distractions (circuses) while ignoring or avoiding more serious issues or problems.
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