When people generally are aware of a problem, it can be said to have entered the public consciousness. When people get on their hind legs and holler, the problem has not only entered the public consciousness -- it has also become a part of the public conscience. At that point, things in our democracy begin to hum.

Summary

This quote suggests that when a problem is widely recognized by the public, it has entered the public consciousness. However, when people actively speak out and engage in activism, the problem not only gains attention but also becomes a moral concern for the public conscience. This is seen as a significant turning point in a democratic society, as it signifies that citizens are actively involved in addressing the problem, and positive change may start to occur.

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