DOROTHY DIXER Meaning and
Definition
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A Dorothy Dixer refers to a specific form of scripted or staged question that is commonly used in political settings, particularly during parliamentary debates or press conferences. Named after the Australian politician Dorothy Dix, who was known for using this strategy, a Dorothy Dixer is essentially a prearranged question that allows a member of a political party to ask a question of a colleague or a member of the same party in order to present them with an opportunity to promote a specific agenda, highlight achievements, or counter opposition arguments.
The purpose of a Dorothy Dixer is primarily strategic rather than seeking genuine information or initiating a meaningful discussion. It enables politicians to control the narrative, frame their arguments, and showcase their party's accomplishments while also creating an illusion of public engagement. By staging these predetermined questions, the politician can manipulate the conversation in their favor, often resulting in a highly predictable and choreographed response that may not effectively address legitimate concerns or engage in a meaningful debate.
The term "Dorothy Dixer" has become synonymous with staged questions in political discourse and is often used to describe situations where politicians or public figures are presenting a contrived or rehearsed narrative rather than offering genuine responses or engaging in spontaneous and open dialogue. The nature of a Dorothy Dixer can contribute to a sense of political theatrics, as it allows politicians to strategically control the conversation, guide public opinion, and reinforce their own agenda.
Etymology of DOROTHY DIXER
The term "Dorothy Dixer" originates from Australian parliamentary slang. It is named after Dorothy Dix, an American journalist who was famous for her advice column and for her sensationalizing and simplifying of stories. In parliamentary contexts, a "Dorothy Dixer" refers to a prearranged question asked by a member of a political party to provide an opportunity for another member of the same party to deliver a prepared response. The purpose of this practice is to allow the member to promote their party's agenda or criticize the opposition. Therefore, "Dorothy Dixer" has come to be associated with a question asked solely for the purpose of providing a scripted answer.
