9780486437033 - Public Opinion

Public Opinion

Walter Lippmann's 'Public Opinion' is a seminal work in the field of media studies and political science, first published in 1922. This book delves into the complexities of how public opinion is formed and the role that media plays in shaping perceptions and beliefs. Lippmann argues that the average citizen's view of the world is not based on direct knowledge but is instead constructed by the media and other influential forces. With a keen analytical eye, Lippmann explores the gap between the 'world outside' and the 'pictures in our heads,' highlighting the challenges this poses for democracy. The book is a critical examination of the interplay between media, public opinion, and democratic governance, offering insights that remain profoundly relevant in today's media-saturated society. 'Public Opinion' is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of media influence and the formation of public attitudes.

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€13.95
GOED
Auteur Walter Lippmann
ISBN 9780486437033
Bindwijze Paperback
Tags media studies Political Science public opinion Walter Lippmann Democracy

Walter Lippmann's 'Public Opinion' is a groundbreaking analysis that has stood the test of time, offering a critical lens through which to view the media's role in shaping societal beliefs. One of the book's strengths is its prescient understanding of media influence, which foreshadowed many contemporary debates about fake news and media bias. However, some readers may find Lippmann's prose dense and his arguments occasionally pessimistic about the average citizen's ability to engage with complex political issues. Despite these minor drawbacks, 'Public Opinion' is a must-read for its insightful critique of democracy and media, providing a foundational perspective that continues to influence discussions on public discourse and media ethics. The book's relevance in the digital age underscores Lippmann's visionary understanding of the media's power to shape reality.

In 'Public Opinion,' Walter Lippmann presents a detailed exploration of how public perceptions are formed and manipulated by the media and other external forces. The book begins by distinguishing between the actual environment and the pseudo-environment created by media representations, arguing that most people's understanding of the world is mediated rather than direct. Lippmann then examines the mechanisms through which stereotypes and simplified narratives are constructed and disseminated, influencing public opinion and political behavior. He critiques the ideal of the omniscient citizen, suggesting that the complexity of modern society makes it impossible for individuals to be fully informed on all issues. Instead, Lippmann proposes the need for expert intermediaries to interpret and simplify information for the public. The book concludes with a reflection on the challenges this poses for democratic theory and practice, calling for a more realistic understanding of public opinion's role in governance.