The Dewey-Lippmann Debate

The Dewey-Lippmann debate centered on how democracy functions best: John Dewey believed that participatory, informed engagement by citizens and open dialogue lead to better decision-making. Conversely, Walter Lippmann argued that citizens lack the time and expertise to grasp complex issues, suggesting that informed leaders or experts should guide policy. The debate highlights different views on citizen involvement: Dewey advocates for active, educated participation, while Lippmann emphasizes the practicality of relying on specialized knowledge to ensure effective governance.