Almond-Lippmann consensus

The Almond-Lippmann consensus refers to the idea that most people are not well-informed about complex political issues, leading to a general public that holds superficial opinions. Political scientists Gabriel Almond and Walter Lippmann suggested that citizens often rely on simplified narratives or stereotypes rather than detailed understanding. This can result in a lack of meaningful engagement with democratic processes. The consensus highlights the challenges of democratic governance when many voters lack comprehensive knowledge, potentially affecting the quality of decisions made by elected representatives. It underscores the importance of civic education and informed public discourse.