In data we (don't) trust: The public adrift in data-driven public opinion models

This article seeks to address current debates comparing polls and opinion mining as empirically based figuration models of public in the light in-depth intellectual on role nature that began after French Revolution controversy over spurred by invention polls. Issues historical quantification re-conceptualisation are addressed four parts. The first summarises history rise fall concept opinion. second re-examines key controversies theoretical, empirical social implications consequences polling. third part scrutinises datafication started with polling industry continues age big data mining. final section discusses controversial potentials opinion-mining technology suggests ways which scientists could critically respond challenges order reintegrate ideas publicness, sphere into research.