Here are some of his key contributions:
* Modernization Theory: Lerner was a key figure in the development of modernization theory, which sought to explain the process of social and economic transformation from traditional to modern societies. He argued that the key to modernization was the spread of "empathy" – a psychological capacity to understand and relate to people outside of one's immediate social circle. He believed that mass media played a crucial role in fostering empathy and promoting modernization.
* The Passing of Traditional Society: His 1958 book, "The Passing of Traditional Society: Modernizing the Middle East," was a landmark work in the field of modernization studies. In it, he examined the role of communication and mass media in the modernization of the Middle East. He argued that the rise of mass media, particularly radio and newspapers, was transforming traditional societies by exposing individuals to new ideas, values, and experiences.
* Communication and Political Development: Lerner's research focused on the relationship between communication and political development. He believed that the growth of mass media, particularly television, was essential for promoting civic participation and democratic values. He also explored the role of communication in fostering national identity and promoting social cohesion.
* Media and the Formation of Public Opinion: Lerner's work also contributed significantly to the understanding of media and public opinion. He argued that mass media played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and influencing political behavior. He believed that media could both inform and manipulate public opinion, making it essential for citizens to be critical consumers of media content.
Lerner's work has been both celebrated and criticized. While his ideas have been influential in the fields of communication, modernization, and political development, they have also been accused of being overly simplistic, Eurocentric, and deterministic. Nevertheless, his contributions remain important for understanding the role of communication in social and political change.