View Resources by Theory

Change to View by Type

Spiral of Silence

Elisabeth Noelle-Nuemann

Chapter 29
Mass Communication—Media Effects

Print Print content only |

Theory Overview

Abstracts appear in Appendix A of the 7th Edition

People live in perpetual fear of isolating themselves and carefully monitor public opinion to see which views are acceptable. When their opinions appear out of favor, they keep silent. Television's constant repetition of a single point of view biases perception of public opinion and accelerates the spiral of silence. (Socio-psychological tradition)

Hint: In addition to the alphabetical drop-down list above, you can also use the Table of Contents for the 7th edition to select a chapter or section of the book, or the Theory List for a listing by author.