Walter Lippmann, a prominent figure in American journalism and political thought, has been the subject of renewed interest following the publication of Tom Arnold-Forster’s biography, "Walter Lippmann: An Intellectual Biography." Lippmann’s career spanned from the Progressive Era through the Cold War, making him one of the most influential commentators on U.S. politics and global affairs. His writings, which addressed every U.S. president from Woodrow Wilson to Lyndon Johnson, provide a critical lens on the evolution of American political discourse.
Lippmann’s intellectual journey was marked by significant shifts in ideology. Initially aligned with the progressive movement, he advocated for reforms that shaped public opinion and political action. His early work, including the 1913 book "A Preface to Politics," emphasized the need for public engagement in democracy, drawing inspiration from figures like Theodore Roosevelt and his Harvard mentor, Graham Wallas. Lippmann’s early writings reflected a commitment to progressivism, promoting the idea that political leaders should guide public sentiment toward reform.
As World War I unfolded, Lippmann’s focus shifted towards international relations. He became an advocate for U.S. intervention in the war, arguing that American engagement was necessary for both strategic and moral reasons. His role as a wartime propagandist and his involvement in drafting Wilson’s Fourteen Points highlighted his belief in the transformative potential of American foreign policy.
Post-war, Lippmann’s influential work "Public Opinion" explored the dynamics of democratic opinion formation, suggesting that experts should play a significant role in shaping public discourse. This perspective laid the groundwork for later discussions about the role of elites in governance, a theme that would recur throughout his career.
In the following decades, Lippmann’s political views evolved further. He supported Franklin D. Roosevelt during the New Deal but later grew critical of FDR’s approach, aligning himself with a more conservative perspective by the late 1930s. His book "The Good Society" critiqued the New Deal, positioning Lippmann alongside thinkers like Friedrich Hayek in discussions about the role of government in society.
World War II marked another turning point for Lippmann, as he advocated for increased state power to combat the Axis powers. He recognized the United States as an emerging empire with global responsibilities, introducing concepts like the "Lippmann Gap," which argued for aligning U.S. commitments with its actual capabilities.
Lippmann’s insights into foreign policy were particularly salient during the Cold War. His critique of George Kennan’s containment strategy reflected his belief that the U.S. should avoid overextending its resources in response to Soviet expansionism. Lippmann’s realism emphasized a pragmatic approach to international relations, warning against the dangers of ideological crusades.
In his later years, Lippmann continued to engage with pressing political issues, including McCarthyism and the Vietnam War. His condemnation of McCarthyism highlighted concerns about the erosion of democratic values, even as he supported some measures against domestic communism.
Arnold-Forster’s biography provides a comprehensive overview of Lippmann’s life and work, although it has been critiqued for its progressive bias. As scholars and readers reflect on Lippmann’s contributions, his legacy as a complex thinker who navigated the shifting landscapes of American politics remains significant. His writings continue to resonate, offering valuable insights into the challenges of democracy and the role of public opinion in shaping political realities.