Explore the origins, semantic nuances, and cultural significance of the phrase 'the man in the street,' a term denoting the ordinary person's perspective in public discourse.
The phrase “the man in the street” refers to an ordinary person, representative of the general populace, whose opinions and perspectives are often sought to gauge public sentiment. This term is commonly employed by pollsters and media outlets to capture the views of the average citizen.
The expression “the man in the street” emerged in the early nineteenth century, coinciding with a period when the opinions of ordinary individuals began to exert influence on public affairs through democratic processes such as elections. Notably, Charles Fulke Greville utilized the phrase in a sardonic manner in his Memoirs (1831), highlighting the perceived naivety of the general populace: “Knowing as ‘the man in the street’ (as we call him at Newmarket) always does, the greatest secrets of kings…” Similarly, Ralph Waldo Emerson expressed a dismissive view in Worship (1860), stating, “The man in the street does not know a star in the sky.”
Semantically, “the man in the street” embodies the archetype of the average individual, often characterized by a lack of specialized knowledge or expertise. The phrase carries connotations of simplicity and ordinariness, yet it also implies the democratic value of every person’s opinion in shaping societal norms and decisions. In various contexts, it may be used to underscore the distinction between expert and lay perspectives.
In contemporary culture, “the man in the street” is frequently invoked by media outlets to provide a vox populi element to news stories, offering a snapshot of public opinion on current events. This usage underscores the democratic ethos of valuing diverse viewpoints, albeit sometimes at the expense of depth and expertise. The phrase is prevalent in both print and electronic media, where reporters seek input from bystanders at significant events.
The phrase “the man in the street” is utilized across various contexts, from journalistic reporting to political analysis. In professional settings, it may denote the lay perspective as opposed to expert opinion. Socially, it emphasizes inclusivity and the collective voice of the populace. In literary contexts, it often serves as a rhetorical device to contrast the mundane with the extraordinary.
The phrase “the man in the street” remains relevant in contemporary discourse, particularly in media and public opinion research. Its continued usage reflects the enduring importance of democratic principles and the value placed on the perspectives of ordinary individuals. Durability: ★★★★☆
“Knowing as ‘the man in the street’ (as we call him at Newmarket) always does, the greatest secrets of kings…” - Charles Fulke Greville, Memoirs (1831)
“The man in the street does not know a star in the sky.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson, Worship (1860)