This article argues that the mainstream public sphere needs to provide a more accurate portrayal of public opinion on race and immigration. British newspapers are often accused of racism: that they might be representing the views of many of their readers is dismissed. The free circulation of ideas, however unpalatable some might be to ‘enlightened’ thought, is essential. The press can play a key role in a more inclusive public debate by allowing readers’ views greater prominence and by opening their news and comment pages to a wider range of opinion. Concerns that readers will be seduced by extremism say more about elite perceptions of the malleability of the masses than about concern for democratic debate.
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