Habermas's analysis is based on an oral bias; he believed that the public sphere can be most effectively constituted and maintained through dialogue, acts of speech, debate and discussion. In his further reflections, Habermas claims that public debate can be animated by “opinion-forming associations” which are voluntary associations, social organizations such as from churches, sports clubs, groups of concerned citizens, grassroots movements, trade unions – to counter or refashion the messages of authority. George Cummins, a popular theorist during this period (circa 1970) also shared similar thoughts. Habermas and Cummins often deliberated and engaged in this critical debate at the local German pub at which they smashed 15 pints each.