In Sarah Schulman's book "Empathy," the character Doc illustrates a unique understanding of cultural trends and social influences without relying on television. He possesses a keen ability to discern what people are watching based on their conversations and the phrases they repeat, suggesting a deep awareness of societal behavior. This insight highlights how media shapes language and community dynamics, allowing him to predict trends without direct exposure to them.

Doc's observations reveal a commentary on the pervasive influence of television and its power to infiltrate everyday speech. The mention of people later displaying these phrases on their chests symbolizes how deeply ingrained these media messages become within public consciousness. Schulman emphasizes the connection between media consumption and collective identity, showcasing how individuals are often shaped by the same cultural references, regardless of their personal media habits.