In "The Price of Inequality," Joseph E. Stiglitz discusses how the influential members of society shape conversations to serve their own interests. They understand that in a democratic system, they cannot just enforce their will; instead, they must find ways to secure the support or compliance of the broader population to promote their goals.

This dynamic highlights the challenge of inequality, as those in power work to create narratives that benefit them, potentially at the expense of democracy and societal cohesion. Stiglitz emphasizes the importance of recognizing these tactics to address the systemic issues of disparity that threaten the future of society.