Sixty years after the publication of his classic book "The Structural Transformation of the Public Sphere" (1962), Jürgen Habermas, a key figure in contemporary political philosophy, revisits this topic. Continuing to emphasize the central role of the public sphere in Western political life, Habermas traces the significant changes it has undergone under the influence of digital media and social networks.

While generally pessimistic about the new digital transformation and noting the degradation of public discourse, the philosopher also analyzes positive trends and responds to multifaceted criticism. Summarizing his work in political theory and sociology, the author concludes that Western regimes cannot seriously claim the title of "democracies" without the genuine involvement of citizens in discussions affecting every member of society.

Jürgen Habermas (b. 1929) is a political philosopher, honorary professor at the University of Frankfurt, and one of the most significant representatives of the second generation of the Frankfurt School.