In depth exploration of John Dos Passos' creative philosophy and its manifestation in his representative work "America", particularly capturing the debate between Lippmann and Dewey in the 1920s about the role of news and the public in democratic societies. Dos Passos considers himself a "chronicler" and his works are often classified as "literary novels", but academic research often overemphasizes explicit history and neglects the author's subtle capture of the spirit of the times. Although 'America' did not directly mention the 'Lippmann Dewey controversy', it deeply intervened in this debate by misappropriating news and depicting the news industry. On the basis of sorting out the background and focus of the debate, the article analyzes the corresponding relationship between the characters and plot in the novel and the debates, revealing Dos Passos' unique way of recording and intervening in the era as a "chronicler".

Time issue: news distortion and "phantom public"

In depth exploration of the debate between Lippmann and Dewey on news, democracy, and the role of the public, which originated from Lippmann's 1922 book "Public Opinion". Lipman believes that news and truth are two different things, and the production process of news can manipulate information, leading to news media becoming a tool for profit and having a negative impact on democratic politics. Dewey criticized Lippmann's negative views on news in his book review, but acknowledged the difficulties in the essence and practical operation of news. The debate between the two is closely related to the political and media environment of the early 20th century, especially the blurred boundaries between propaganda and journalism during World War I, as well as the Wilson government's erosion of democratic ideals.

Two options: expert governance and participatory democracy

Explored the different perspectives and solutions of Lippmann and Dewey on news and democracy issues. Lipman advocates the development of independent intelligence agencies, with professionals responsible for information collection and dissemination, to provide assistance to representative governance mechanisms in the political and industrial fields in a scientific and objective manner. He believes that the solution to democratic issues lies not in making the public take on more responsibility, but in allowing citizens to participate as little as possible in jobs they are not capable of, and only in balancing authoritarian forces in times of crisis. Lipman's views became the cornerstone of public relations theory and were reflected in the novel "America" through the image of public relations expert Moorhouse.

Novelist's statement: The personal roots of the 'public' crisis

In depth exploration of the different understandings and coping strategies of public crises by Lippmann and Dewey in "America". Lipman believed that the scientific methods of experts could solve social problems, while Dewey advocated for the cohesion of society through participatory democracy and the art of communication. However, the novel reveals the struggles and choices of individuals in the face of moral and emotional dilemmas, as well as the profound impact of these choices on individuals and society, through the stories of Morehouse and left-wing individuals.