The Politics of Public Opinion in the Novels of Anthony Trollope: A 'Tenth Muse'

The emergence of public opinion as a political subject is closely linked to the press's penetration into local issues and the question of which "publics" should be represented. It is a composite of parliamentary law-making and appellate division for society's social and judicial judgments, providing an alternative narrative to gossip. It is detached from any unitary authority and often anonymously narrated, making it a "law unto itself" that can be manipulated by new informational platforms to impact decision-making.

Format: Hardback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 17 January 2023
Publisher: Anthem Press

Although the concept of "public opinion" has always been present, it gained recognition as a political subject in both the Oxford English Dictionary (1864) and the Barsetshire Chronicle and Parliamentary Novels of Anthony Trollope contemporaneously with the following factors:
1. The penetration of the press into local issues.
2. The question of which "publics" were to be represented in government and society.

Public opinion is a multifaceted concept that encompasses parliamentary law-making and serves as a sort of appellate division for society's social and judicial judgments. It provides an alternative narrative to traditional decision-making processes. Unlike nineteenth-century novels' gossip, which often contained instruction manuals such as "don't tell anyone, who told you, but...", public opinion is not bound by any unitary authority and is often narrated anonymously. This detachment from traditional sources of authority allows it to evolve into a "law unto itself," disconnected from history, tradition, class alignments, and foundational origins.

The emergence of public opinion as a political subject was influenced by several factors. The press's increasing penetration into local issues allowed for a broader dissemination of information and a greater awareness of societal concerns. The rise of popular democracy and the demand for greater representation also played a role in shaping public opinion. Additionally, the development of new informational platforms, such as newspapers, magazines, and social media, has further facilitated the manipulation and dissemination of public opinion.

One of the key characteristics of public opinion is its ability to shape political outcomes. Public opinion can influence election results, policy decisions, and public perception of issues. For example, a survey showing that a majority of people support a particular policy can pressure politicians to adopt it, while negative public opinion can lead to opposition or backlash. Public opinion can also be used to justify or condemn social and political movements.

However, the influence of public opinion can be both positive and negative. On the positive side, public opinion can promote social change and hold governments accountable. It can also serve as a check on the power of elites and institutions. For example, public opinion can pressure politicians to address social issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.

On the negative side, public opinion can be manipulated and influenced by vested interests, media bias, and misinformation. This can lead to the spread of false narratives and the polarization of society. Public opinion can also be used to justify discrimination, violence, and authoritarianism.

In conclusion, public opinion is a complex and multifaceted concept that has evolved over time. It is influenced by a range of factors, including the press, popular democracy, new informational platforms, and societal concerns. Public opinion has the power to shape political outcomes and influence public perception of issues, but it can also be manipulated and influenced by vested interests and misinformation. It is important to approach public opinion with a critical eye and to seek out diverse sources of information to develop a well-rounded understanding of societal concerns.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 158 x 237 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781839986932