Comparative Summary: Lippmann, Chomsky, Lewis

Mass media is a means of public communication for reaching a large audience. Walter Lippmann and Herman and Chomsky state their views on the role of the mass media and how this role fits into the principles of a democratic government. However, Lippmann's view in Public Opinion, and Herman and Chomsky's view in °A Propaganda Model" have sharply distinct ideas. While, Lippmann supports a more ideal use and role of the mass media to balance with the public's life conditions through control of the media, on the contrary Herman and Chomsky condemn the misuse of the media from control.

First, one must ask who provides information through the media. Lippmann indirectly argues in favor for control of the media. One of the major reasons for this is the news language spoken in the media. A language in which correct interpretation was difficult for common citizens to formulate. The average human being is unlikely to sit down and analyze the raw information provided by the media after a long day of work. Under this assumption, Lippmann argues that there should be a group of professional intellectuals interpreting what the media provides as news and public opinion. Lippmann¡¯s argument can thus be interpreted as a support for the control of the media to ensure sound opinions for the sake of national interest..

On the other hand, Herman and Chomsky feel that control of the media creates bias in the type and manner of information provided.