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.
This statement warns that without proper methods to analyze public opinion, it risks being merely superficial and misleading.
Share
More from John Dewey
What he believes, hopes for and aims at is the outcome of association and intercourse.
The ties which hold men together in action are numerous, tough and subtle.
For the older symbols of ideal life still engage thought and command loyalty.
What is significant is that access to means of amusement has been rendered easy and cheap beyond anything known in the past.