The Public and Its Problems
What is The Public and Its Problems about?
The Public and Its Problems (1927) is John Dewey’s major work of political philosophy. Written in response to Walter Lippmann’s skepticism about democratic competence, Dewey argues that the public can govern itself effectively if it has access to information and the capacity for collective deliberation. He examines how modern industrial society has fragmented communities and made it difficult for the public to identify itself as a political force, and proposes education and communication as the means of democratic renewal.
Main themes in The Public and Its Problems
Democratic theory
The presence of democratic theory in The Public and Its Problems connects readers to its enduring relevance.
Public deliberation
Public deliberation emerges as a defining element in The Public and Its Problems, shaping character development.
Media and democracy
The Public and Its Problems thoughtfully explores media and democracy through its central conflicts.
Community and politics
The Public and Its Problems thoughtfully explores community and politics through its central conflicts.
Why The Public and Its Problems is still relevant today
Dewey’s defense of democratic participation and informed public deliberation speaks directly to contemporary concerns about democracy and media. Read it free online on TextStack.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Public and Its Problems about?
Dewey defends democratic self-governance, arguing that education and communication can enable the public to participate effectively in political life despite modern society’s complexity.
Where can I read it online?
You can read The Public and Its Problems by John Dewey free online on TextStack.