The quote suggests that having democratic processes like charters, direct primaries, or simplified ballots alone will not be sufficient to create a functioning democracy if the population lacks education and literacy skills. It highlights the importance of an informed citizenry for democracy to thrive.
At a deeper level, this statement underscores the critical relationship between education and effective governance. Walter Lippmann believed that a well-informed populace is essential for making sound political decisions and maintaining democratic values. Without educated citizens who can understand complex issues and engage critically with society, even the most streamlined electoral processes are likely to be ineffective or misleading. Democracy thrives when people not only have access to voting mechanisms but also possess the knowledge and understanding required to make informed choices.
Walter Lippmann was an influential American journalist, philosopher, and writer whose work focused on politics, mass media, and public opinion. He believed that in a complex society, ordinary citizens cannot be expected to stay fully aware of every political issue and therefore need intermediaries like the press to convey accurate information. His views continue to resonate in discussions about the role of education in civic engagement and democratic participation today.
