Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that online public opinion is a complex phenomenon that reflects public attitudes and emotions towards social issues, and it should not be simplistically categorized as crisis management or a branch of communication studies [2][3]. Group 1: Nature and Characteristics of Online Public Opinion - Online public opinion is a manifestation of social discourse that is influenced by various factors, including political, social, economic, psychological, and legal aspects [3][4]. - The complexity of online public opinion requires a multidisciplinary approach for comprehensive understanding, integrating insights from political science, sociology, economics, psychology, communication studies, and law [3][4][18]. Group 2: Formation Mechanisms - The formation of online public opinion is rooted in social structures and psychological mechanisms, with feelings of social inequality and relative deprivation being significant underlying causes [5][7]. - Internet technology accelerates the formation and dissemination of public opinion, providing platforms for expression and reducing psychological barriers to sharing opinions [6][19]. Group 3: Stages of Development - Online public opinion typically progresses through three stages: occurrence, diffusion, and decline, each characterized by specific psychological mechanisms and public engagement [9][10]. - During the occurrence stage, an event triggers initial public interest; in the diffusion stage, information spreads rapidly, leading to diverse opinions; and in the decline stage, public attention shifts away from the issue [9][10]. Group 4: Governance Strategies - Effective management of online public opinion requires collaboration among multiple stakeholders, including government, enterprises, and various institutions [11][12]. - Governments play a crucial role in regulating and guiding public opinion, emphasizing the need for legal frameworks and timely communication to prevent misinformation [12][13]. - Enterprises must monitor public sentiment and respond to crises effectively to protect brand reputation, while also ensuring responsible content management on their platforms [14][15]. Group 5: Future Directions - The evolution of information technology presents both challenges and opportunities for online public opinion management, necessitating a focus on ethical considerations and cross-border collaboration [19]. - Future research should continue to explore innovative approaches to managing online public opinion, aiming to balance freedom of expression with the need for social order [19].