Lawrence Dennis - Public Opinion and the Town Meeting Idea - 1936

Lawrence Dennis (1893-1977) was an American political writer who predicted the demise of democracy in America. His books, such as "The Coming American Fascism", "The Dynamics of War and Revolution", and "Operational Thinking for Survival", demonstrate his intellectual development from the 1930's to the 1960's. His criticisms of America remain relevant today. Dennis's solution of "operational thinking" (or philosophical rationalism) has yet to catch on. Dennis was a guest several times on the radio show America's Town Meeting of the Air. This episode from Nov. 5, 1936, features Dennis alongside Dorothy Thompson and Scott Nearing. This video is a compilation of only Dennis's statements and responses from said episode. From 1:30-12:30 Dennis gives his statement which is followed by discussion and questions from the audience.

Topics and Timestamps 1:30 - Free speech is essentially a luxury. 2:34 - Historically there has never been any such thing as absolute freedom of speech. 3:30 - Restriction of free speech during the American revolution. 4:40 - A prison sentence for denouncing a present war. 5:51 - Free discussion during the current peaceful conditions. 7:00 - Truth is relative, public discussion must realize social order. 8:24 - Public discussion and abuse of power. 9:39 - The town meeting and social regulation. 10:35 - Conditions in which public discussion can be dangerous to public safety. 12:30 - Mass communications as solution to problem of free speech and propaganda.

12:34 - Comments - To Dorothy Thompson - Discussion must be safe and responsible. 14:08 - Comments - To Scott Nearing - Communism is perpetual revolution. 16:04 - Audience Question for Mr. Dennis - When is public safety in danger from free speech? 17:25 - Ms. Thompson asks about recent Hitler speech. 17:56 - Question from young lady - What criteria would make discussion safe? 18:40 - Question from man from Brooklyn - In what situation would public speech do harm to public safety? 19:37 - Question from man in audience - Who will make the rules of speech and enforce them? 20:05 - Question from lady in audience - Whether what happened in Europe can't happen here?