Listening Publics: The Politics and Experience of Listening in the Media Age Kate Lacey

Summary of the Book

Listening Publics revolves around the core argument that the act and politics of listening deserve as much scholarly and societal attention as the acts of speaking and broadcasting. The book unpacks what it means to be a “listening public” in various media epochs, ranging from the rise of radio broadcasting to the digital age. With each chapter, I confront key questions: How do media technologies influence the ways we listen? How is listening connected to power, participation, and citizenship? And how can listening be reclaimed as a form of democratic engagement?

The book draws on a rich array of examples—radio programming, political speeches, podcasts, and social media—to elucidate how different historical and technological contexts have enabled or hindered listening practices. Special attention is given to the dynamics of inclusion and exclusion, exploring who gets to speak and who is compelled to listen under various circumstances. Furthermore, the book challenges the traditional binary of “active speaker” versus “passive listener,” advocating for a view of listening as an active, critical, and creative practice.

By integrating theoretical frameworks from media studies and political philosophy with empirical examples from everyday life, Listening Publics argues that listening is more than a democratic ideal. It is a practice that must be nurtured and protected. If we are to foster healthier public spheres, we must address the inequalities and blind spots surrounding listening in our media landscapes.

Key Takeaways

• Listening is an active and political process, not merely a passive act.
• The media shape not only how we speak but how we listen, influencing the public sphere and democratic engagement.
• The concept of "listening publics" challenges traditional notions of audience passivity in mass communication.
• Understanding the politics of listening is essential for addressing inequalities in who gets to be heard and who is ignored.
• Listening can be a form of civic participation and resistance in times of political or media crises.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"Listening is not a neutral act. It is, inherently, a politics of attention and recognition."

"In a world dominated by speaking, what does it mean to give space to listening as an act of agency and engagement?"

"The capacity to listen—or be listened to—shapes our roles as citizens, as audiences, and as humans."

Why This Book Matters

Listening Publics addresses a critical gap in media and communication scholarship by highlighting the neglected yet crucial act of listening. In an era where divisive rhetoric, echo chambers, and polarized public discourse dominate, understanding the political and social dimensions of listening is more important than ever. By reimagining listening as a dynamic and participatory process, the book equips readers with the tools to engage more ethically and responsively in both media and civic life.

Furthermore, the book resonates beyond academia, offering insights for media practitioners, activists, politicians, and ordinary citizens seeking to navigate the complexities of communication in our media age. It reminds us that democracy is not just about speaking louder; it is also about listening better—and ensuring others can be heard.