Politicians, environmentalists and special interest groups all strive to sway public opinion. But what exactly is “the public”? Philosopher Alastair Hannay’s On the Public (Routledge, £8.99) is an interesting short guide. The internet, he points out, touted as the ultimate public space, lacks the one thing that made the ancient Greek agora political and public: the physical presence of your peers. You can pursue this idea with Thomas Hughes, who thinks about technology and how it shapes culture in Human-Built World (University of Chicago Press, £9.50/$13).
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Humans
Stunning collection of prehistoric engravings found in Spanish cave
News
Humans
British Iron Age ‘king’ who prompted Roman invasion was probably a woman
News
91ɫÇéƬ
Toothbrush that emits electricity may more effectively prevent gum disease
News
Twisteddoodles on scientific equipment training
Regulars
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles