Public Opinion by Walter Lippmann

Public Opinion, published in 1922, is a critical examination of the challenges faced by democratic governments due to irrational and self-serving social perceptions. Walter Lippmann delves into the cognitive limitations individuals encounter when trying to understand their socio-political and cultural environments, proposing that people rely on evolving stereotypes to navigate complex realities. This influential text has become a cornerstone in media studies, political science, and social psychology, offering profound insights into the mechanisms of public opinion and its far-reaching consequences. Lippmann's analysis highlights the disparity between the ideal of informed citizenship and the practical limitations of human perception and understanding. By exploring the role of stereotypes and the media in shaping public opinion, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how societal cohesion is both facilitated and hindered by these factors. Public Opinion remains a vital resource for understanding the complexities of modern democracy and the forces that shape collective behavior.

Reviews

Five Books · 2025-12-22

seminal 4.25

The book is a seminal work that explores the reliability and manipulability of public opinion in democratic societies. It is praised for its articulate and informative content, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of public opinion.

Five Books offers an insightful review of Walter Lippmann's 'Public Opinion', highlighting its seminal exploration of the reliability and manipulability of public opinion in democratic societies. The reviewer praises the book for its articulate and informative content, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of public opinion. The book is noted for its timeless relevance, particularly in the context of modern political and media landscapes. The reviewer emphasizes Lippmann's concerns about the dangers of uninformed public opinion and the role of media in shaping collective thought, making it a must-read for anyone interested in political science and media studies.

Quick quotes

A seminal work that explores the reliability and manipulability of public opinion in democratic societies.

Praised for its articulate and informative content.

A valuable resource for understanding the complexities of public opinion.

Taylor & Francis Online · NG Gaitano · 2022-01-01

insightful 4.50

The book is a profound exploration of the mechanisms of public opinion, highlighting the influence of stereotypes and the media. It remains relevant today, offering timeless insights into the complexities of democratic processes.

NG Gaitano delves into Walter Lippmann's seminal work, 'Public Opinion', which remains a cornerstone in understanding the dynamics of public opinion. They highlight how Lippmann's analysis of stereotypes and the media's role in shaping public perception is as relevant today as it was a century ago. The book is praised for its timeless insights into the complexities of democratic processes and the challenges of informed decision-making. Gaitano also notes the book's enduring relevance in the context of modern media and political landscapes, making it a must-read for anyone interested in political science and media studies.

Quick quotes

Lippmann's analysis of stereotypes and the media's role in shaping public perception is as relevant today as it was a century ago.

The book offers timeless insights into the complexities of democratic processes.

A must-read for anyone interested in political science and media studies.

From the Lab Bench · 2012-10-26

critical 4.00

The book is a critical examination of how public opinion is formed and manipulated, with a focus on the role of stereotypes and self-interest. It is considered a foundational text in the study of public opinion and media.

From the Lab Bench provides a comprehensive review of Lippmann's 'Public Opinion', emphasizing its critical examination of how public opinion is formed and manipulated. The reviewer highlights Lippmann's exploration of stereotypes and self-interest as key factors in shaping public perception. The book is praised for its foundational role in the study of public opinion and media, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms that influence collective thought. The reviewer notes that Lippmann's work remains highly relevant, particularly in understanding the impact of media and political narratives on public opinion.

Quick quotes

Lippmann explores how stereotypes and self-interest guide public opinion.

A critical examination of how public opinion is formed and manipulated.

A foundational text in the study of public opinion and media.

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