Together, `网络 (wǎngluò)` means “internet,” and `舆论 (yúlùn)` means “public opinion.” The combination `网络舆论` is a direct and modern term meaning “internet public opinion.”
`网络舆论` holds a unique and weighty position in modern Chinese society. While the West has “online discourse” or “social media trends,” `网络舆论` is perceived as a more potent force, acting as a form of grassroots social supervision (`社会监督 shèhuì jiāndū`) in a system with limited official channels for public feedback. Comparison to “Online Discourse” in the West: The key difference lies in its perceived role and impact. In the West, online discourse can certainly influence events, but it's one of many competing voices (e.g., traditional press, lobbyists, official opposition parties). In China, `网络舆论` can sometimes feel like the *primary* battlefield for public debate. A surge in negative `网络舆论` can trigger swift, official responses from government bodies or apologies from major corporations in a way that is less predictable in the West. This phenomenon is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it has been a powerful tool for social justice, exposing corruption and helping victims. On the other hand, it can lead to “human flesh searches” (`人肉搜索 rénròu sōusuǒ`), a form of mob justice where netizens collaboratively dox and shame individuals, often with devastating consequences. The government is also heavily involved in “guiding” (`引导 yǐndǎo`) `网络舆论` to align with state narratives, a concept far more overt than similar PR or government communication efforts in the West.
`网络舆论` is a term you will constantly encounter in Chinese news, business meetings, and daily conversation about current events.
The connotation is often neutral-to-negative, as it's most frequently discussed in the context of a problem, crisis, or controversy that needs to be managed.