The Silenced Majority by Amy Goodman & Denis Moynihan Summary

The Silenced Majority documents grassroots movements, uprisings, and resistance efforts against corporate and government power, highlighting stories ignored by mainstream media. Co-authored by Amy Goodman and Denis Moynihan, it critiques media failures while amplifying voices from Occupy Wall Street to climate justice struggles. The book connects global dissent movements, from Tahrir Square to Fukushima anti-nuclear protests.

Activists, socially conscious readers, and media critics will find this book essential. It appeals to those interested in grassroots organizing, independent journalism, and understanding systemic issues like racial injustice or climate apartheid. Academics studying social movements or media bias also benefit from its firsthand accounts.

Yes—it’s praised for its investigative rigor and compelling storytelling, with endorsements from Noam Chomsky, Susan Sarandon, and Cornel West. The book offers a stark contrast to corporate media narratives, providing actionable insights for fostering social change. Critics note its unapologetically progressive lens, which some may find one-sided.

• Media critique: Exposes corporate media’s role in marginalizing dissent.
• Grassroots resistance: Chronicles movements like Occupy and anti-war protests.
• Climate justice: Analyzes “climate apartheid” and Fukushima’s aftermath.
• Racial injustice: Covers police brutality and the Troy Davis execution case.

• “Amy Goodman has taken investigative journalism to new heights.” —Noam Chomsky
• “What journalism should be: beholden to people, not power.” —Arundhati Roy
• “The silenced majority is finding its voice.” —Amy Goodman

It argues corporate media prioritizes power over truth, relying on pundits who misunderstand grassroots movements. The book contrasts this with Democracy Now!’s approach, centering marginalized voices and systemic analysis. Examples include underreporting on Occupy Wall Street and climate activism.

• Occupy Wall Street: Explores its origins and suppression.
• Anti-nuclear protests: Details post-Fukushima activism in Japan.
• Troy Davis campaign: Highlights efforts to stop his execution.
• Arab Spring: Links global uprisings to U.S. dissent.

It frames climate justice as a struggle against “climate apartheid,” where marginalized communities bear the brunt of environmental crises. The book critiques corporate-driven policies and highlights grassroots demands for renewable energy.

Some reviewers argue it lacks conservative perspectives, leaning heavily on progressive activism. Others note its format—compiled columns—can feel repetitive. However, supporters praise its unflinching focus on systemic inequities.

It expands on themes from Breaking the Sound Barrier and Exception to the Rulers, offering updated analysis of post-2008 movements. The collaboration with Moynihan adds deeper commentary on media’s role in social change.

Its critique of media consolidation and climate inaction remains urgent amid ongoing protests and AI-driven disinformation. The book’s focus on grassroots organizing mirrors current movements for racial equity and environmental justice.

By showcasing successful resistance models—from street protests to independent media—it empowers readers to challenge power structures. The authors argue amplifying marginalized voices is key to societal transformation.