The "Spiral of Silence" is a social theory proposed by Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann in the 1970s. It suggests that individuals are less likely to express their opinions if they believe they are in the minority. This fear of isolation leads to a self-reinforcing cycle where the dominant viewpoint becomes more pronounced, while dissenting voices become quieter. As more people remain silent, the perception of the majority opinion strengthens, further discouraging others from speaking out. This phenomenon can significantly impact public discourse, shaping societal norms and influencing political outcomes, as individuals may conform to what they perceive as popular belief rather than voicing their true thoughts.