Twentieth-century journalist Walter Lippmann’s enduring appeal lies in his staunch commitment to the common good—the idea that society can function in a way that benefits everyone, not just individuals or specific groups. It’s a concept that is as essential today as it was when he first explored it nearly a century ago.

Lippmann—whose insights on democracy, media, and morality helped shape American thought—would be alarmed by today’s eroding public trust and the relentless pursuit of self-interest over shared responsibility. His work serves as a potent reminder that true freedom and democracy require more than self-interest; they require a shared commitment to the values that bind us.

Today’s fractured political landscape and lack of shared vision starkly contrast to the unity of Congress and Franklin Roosevelt during World War II.

Then: There was strong unity in Congress and the public due largely to Franklin Roosevelt’s command which rallied the nation around the common goal of defeating fascism.

Now: Democracy today is undermined by deep divisions and conflict, resulting in gridlock and little cooperative policy-making. General John Kelly, former Chief of Staff to Donald Trump, General Mark Milley, former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, Mark Esper, former Defense Secretary, and hundreds of other former Republican officials from Trump’s first term in office, have attested to his reckless, authoritarian tendencies that drove much of this division.

Then: The public largely supported the war effort, fostering national pride and a sense of shared responsibility that—we’re all in this together.

Now: Due to the widespread disinformation campaign by Trump and his allies, a sizable number of the public has become disillusioned and skeptical of the very government institutions meant to protect us, fostering the false belief that these institutions only serve the interests of a powerful few rather than the public they were created to protect.

Then: Urgency led to setting aside partisan differences for national solidarity against Germany, Italy, and Japan.

Now: Increased division leads much of the public to view each other as either enemies or patriots, undermining not only public trust in the government but also trust among individuals.

Then: Roosevelt inspired unity and strength through effective communication and leadership.

Now: The public conversation is overwhelmed by a self-serving individual willing to “suspend the Constitution” to maintain his grip on power.

A good society, Lippmann argued, is only as strong as its commitment to the welfare of all its citizens, not just those at the top or the loudest in the room. He correctly foreshadowed how a public focused solely on personal gain becomes vulnerable to manipulation, division, and disintegration.

In today’s world, where leaders often prioritize division over unity or remain silent in the face of extremism, the idea of the common good feels like an act of courage. It’s a reminder that despite our differences, we share a fundamental need for dignity, safety, and respect.

The common good is not simply an ideal to strive for but a daily commitment. It’s the willingness to listen, empathize, and even sacrifice when necessary. It’s the realization that democracy is not just about rights but responsibilities. Walter Lippmann understood that. We need to remember it.