Daniel Lerner was an American social scientist and communication theorist, best known for his work in the fields of media studies and development. He gained prominence for his book, The Passing of Traditional Society, published in 1958, which explored the impact of mass media on social change in developing countries. Lerner's research emphasized the role of communication in fostering modernization and democratization. Lerner's theories contributed to the understanding of the relationship between media and society, particularly in the context of the Middle East and South Asia. He was a professor at New York University and served as a consultant for various international organizations, influencing policies related to communication and development.