Political Quotes

John Dewey: Unless there are methods for detecting the energies which are at work and tracing them through an intricate network of…

On the record
Unless there are methods for detecting the energies which are at work and tracing them through an intricate network of interactions to their consequences, what passes as public opinion will be “opinion” in its derogatory sense rather than truly public, no matter how widespread the opinion is.
Said by
John Dewey

Editor's note · Context

This statement warns that without proper methods to analyze public opinion, it risks being merely superficial and misleading.

Share

More from John Dewey

Personal loyalties to elders take the place of political obedience.

gutenberg.org

The idea remains barren and empty save as it is incarnated in human relationships.

gutenberg.org

But this conclusion is an obvious invitation to trial of forces to see where superior force lies.

gutenberg.org

In no two ages or places is there the same public.

gutenberg.org