Abstract: The study explores the concept of public opinion, its components, mechanisms of formation, and methods of measurement. It questions whether the resulting public opinion is genuine or a construct, especially in light of the rise of new digital technologies for expressing opinions. It also examines the impact of emotions, rumours and populist discourse on the opinions users adopt in a chaotic digital environment, within the framework of the post-truth era, where some researchers support the thesis of “the death of public opinion”. Is it still possible to discuss public opinion today, or is the hypothesis of its death valid and realistic? What are the foundations of public opinion formation? Does public opinion in the Arab world vary based on its components and determinants, or is the death hypothesis accurate? How do differing political systems in the Arab region affect public opinion in each country? To what extent is public opinion effective in shaping public policy? Through a descriptive and analytical examination of the Algerian and Lebanese movements, the study concludes that discussing public opinion and identifying its components remains relevant. It argues that the hypothesis of the death of public opinion, arising from scepticism about the results of public opinion polls and their political use, appears unscientific and unrealistic, particularly given the freedom of expression characteristic of the digital landscape and the post-truth era. While public opinion in this environment may be shaped by deception and emotional manipulation, the effectiveness of public opinion in influencing public policy is a complex issue, varying according to political, economic and social contexts. Keywords: Public Opinion, Digital Environment, Digital Public Opinion, Post- Truth Era, Public Policy.
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