Exam 2 Public Opinion

Collected attitudes of people concerning a given issue or question. Obtained through polling.

• Setting of Interview • Method of Interview • Size of sample: 1000 to 1500

• Random Sample • Error Margin (a statistical measure of the potential difference between a sample result and the true value of the entire population.) • Question Working • Method of Survey

Explains behavior of: - General public - Public officials

• Opinions can vary overtime • Some opinions are formed early and are relatively stable – Identity as “liberal” or “conservative” – Party ID • Most other opinions are latent (developing or not yet existing) – Constructed on the spot – Variability • Citizens are willing to give opinion on matters outside of their expertise • Government policy can reflect public opinion EX) Capital Punishment

• Political Socialization – Complex process by which people acquire their values – Opinions are shaped by other people and the surrounding culture • Family – We learn values from our guardians/parents • School – Elementary (pledge and allegiance) – Secondary – College • Peers – Initial peer groups: Community – College and work peers

Events can alter individual/public opinion EX) 9/11, wars

• Socioeconomic Status – Combination of education, income, and type of work • Education (Exposure, Knowledge) • Income • Age and Generation • Religion • Gender – Party ID • Region

• Bias

• Ideology vs issue position

• Polls can also give us an understanding of what people know about politics/current affairs.