American government texts contain entire chapters on freedoms and rights, government and mass media. Indeed in American universities, entire courses are devoted to each of these topics. Before discussing the features of an open society, we need to understand the American interpretation of the terms open and society. An open dialogue, an open institution or an open society means that there is transparent communication between all individuals. This openness promotes discussion, conflict and ultimately the resolution of conflict.
Closed discussion permits dialogue only among a few.
By opening dialogue, different opinions can be expressed, and therefore, an open society encourages the dialogue necessary to resolve conflicts between individuals and institutions. A society is the totality of individuals and institutions. Therefore, the society includes public and private individuals, government institutions, economic institutions, mass media and all other institutions of the society. In an open society, individuals and institutions must be allowed to disagree. Conflict is an inherent feature of human nature.