I think there was a quote by a Nordic writer (possibly Hans Christian Andersen) in which he talked about how circuses and amusement parks keep people distracted and busy so we don't focus on important policy issues.
Plays, farces, spectacles, gladiators, strange beasts, medals, pictures and other such opiates, these were for ancient peoples the bait toward slavery, the price of their liberty, the instruments of tyranny. By these practices and enticements the ancient dictators so successfully lulled their subjects … that the stupified peoples, fascinated by the pastimes and vain pleasures, … learned subservience as naively, bit not so creditably, as little children learn to read by looking at bright picture books.
Excellent! People hardly know about "Etienne De La Boetie" much less read his works. Only "popular" authors are discussed many of whose works lack real depth.
It refers to a concept prevalent in ancient Rome, where the government would provide its citizens with free food and entertainment in the form of lavish spectacles, such as gladiator fights, chariot races, and theatrical performances. The phrase highlights the strategy employed by the ruling class to keep the population content and distracted from important political issues and matters of governance.
Orwell and Huxleys work are both centralised (authoritarian - you had to take your Soma) whereas our current risk is possibly more systematic and less conspirational.
https://www.bbc.com/culture/article/20220818-the-surprisingl...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bread_and_circuses