American Government PSC101 1007 Chapter 6

 Public opinion refers to the collective attitudes, beliefs, and preferences of the general public on various issues and topics. It is an important aspect of democratic societies as it informs government policies, political decision-making, and public discourse. Here are some key aspects of the nature of public opinion:

1. Diverse and Heterogeneous: Public opinion is diverse and often reflects the varying perspectives and backgrounds of individuals within a society. People have different experiences, values, and worldviews, leading to a wide range of opinions on any given issue.

2. Fluid and Dynamic: Public opinion is not static; it can change over time in response to events, new information, or shifting societal norms. Public opinion can be influenced by factors such as economic conditions, cultural shifts, and technological advancements.

3. Influenced by Information: Public opinion is influenced by the information people have access to. Media, social media, education, and interpersonal communication all play a role in shaping individuals' views on issues.

4. Political Socialization: The process of political socialization, which includes family, education, and peer influences, plays a crucial role in shaping an individual's political beliefs and opinions.

5. Measuring Public Opinion: Polling and survey research are common methods used to measure public opinion. Polls can provide insights into the preferences and attitudes of a sample of the population, which are then extrapolated to make inferences about the broader public.

6. Sampling and Margin of Error: Polling involves selecting a representative sample of the population. The margin of error is an important consideration in interpreting poll results, as it reflects the potential variability in opinions within the larger population.

7. Opinion Leaders and Elites: Opinion leaders, including politicians, activists, and influential individuals, can shape public opinion by advocating for particular positions and ideas. They often play a role in framing issues.

8. Public Opinion and Policy: Public opinion can influence government policies and decision-making, particularly in democratic systems where politicians are accountable to the electorate. Politicians often consider public opinion when making policy choices.

9. Public Opinion and Media: Media outlets, through reporting, analysis, and editorial content, can influence public opinion by framing issues and shaping the narrative around important topics.

10. Majority and Minority Views: Public opinion can reflect both majority and minority views on issues. In some cases, minority opinions may become more influential over time, leading to shifts in public policy.

11. Public Opinion and Social Change: Public opinion has played a significant role in driving social and political change. Movements for civil rights, environmental protection, and other important issues have often gained momentum by changing public opinion and mobilizing support.

12. Global Perspective: Public opinion is not limited to individual countries; it also exists at the international level. Opinions on global issues, such as climate change and international conflicts, can shape foreign policy decisions.

In summary, public opinion is a complex and dynamic aspect of democratic societies. It reflects the diversity of perspectives within a population and can be influenced by various factors. Understanding public opinion is crucial for policymakers, political leaders, and the public at large, as it informs decision-making and the direction of societal change.

Public opinion is measured through various methods and techniques designed to gauge the attitudes, beliefs, and preferences of a representative sample of the population. These methods help researchers and pollsters understand what the broader public thinks about specific issues, candidates, policies, or social trends. Here are some common ways public opinion is measured:

1. Surveys and Questionnaires:

   • Surveys are one of the most common methods for measuring public opinion. Researchers develop questionnaires or surveys with carefully crafted questions to elicit responses from respondents.
   • Surveys can be conducted through face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews, mailed questionnaires, online surveys, or mobile apps. Online surveys have become increasingly popular due to their cost-effectiveness and broad reach.

2. Random Sampling:

   • To ensure the survey results are representative of the population as a whole, researchers use random sampling techniques. This involves randomly selecting a subset (sample) of the population to participate in the survey.
   • Random sampling helps minimize bias and ensure that every member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample.

3. Margin of Error:

   • Surveys typically report a margin of error, which reflects the potential variability in responses within the larger population. A smaller margin of error indicates greater precision in the survey results.
   • The margin of error is calculated based on the sample size and the level of confidence chosen by the researchers (often 95%).

4. Exit Polls:

   • Exit polls are conducted on Election Day as voters exit polling places. These surveys provide insights into voter behavior and preferences.
   • Exit polls are often used by news organizations to project election outcomes before all votes are counted.

5. Focus Groups:

   • Focus groups involve small, diverse groups of individuals who engage in discussions led by a moderator. These discussions can provide in-depth insights into participants' opinions, attitudes, and reactions.
   • Focus groups are often used to test messages, advertisements, or policy proposals.

6. Online and Social Media Analysis:

   • Sentiment analysis and data mining of online and social media platforms are used to gauge public sentiment and trending topics.
   • Social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook, provide large datasets that researchers can analyze to understand public opinion.

7. Content Analysis:

   • Content analysis involves the systematic examination of media content, such as news articles, editorials, or online discussions, to identify patterns and trends in public opinion.
   • Researchers look for recurring themes and the framing of issues in media coverage.

8. Public Opinion Polling Organizations:

   • Numerous polling organizations, such as Gallup, Pew Research Center, and Ipsos, conduct regular public opinion polls on a wide range of topics. These organizations are known for their methodological rigor and reputation for accuracy.

9. Census Data and Demographics:

   • Census data and demographic information can provide valuable insights into the composition and characteristics of the population, which can inform public opinion research.

10. Longitudinal Studies:

    • Longitudinal studies track changes in public opinion over time by repeatedly surveying the same individuals or groups. These studies can reveal trends and shifts in attitudes and beliefs.

Measuring public opinion is a complex process that requires careful design, sampling, and analysis. Pollsters and researchers strive to minimize bias, ensure the representativeness of the sample, and provide accurate and reliable insights into the views and preferences of the population.

Public opinion can vary widely on different issues, and it is influenced by a variety of factors, including personal experiences, cultural background, education, media exposure, and political beliefs. As a result, the public's views are diverse and may not always align on any given topic. Here are some common factors that can influence what the public thinks:

1. Political Beliefs and Affiliation: Political ideology and party affiliation often shape people's opinions on a wide range of issues, including government policies, social issues, and economic matters. Democrats and Republicans, for example, may have differing views on healthcare, taxation, and immigration.

2. Media Exposure: The media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion. People who consume news from different sources or with different biases may have contrasting views on current events and political matters.

3. Demographics: Demographic factors such as age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, and education can influence opinions. For example, younger and older generations may have different perspectives on social issues, and income levels can affect views on economic policies.

4. Geographic Location: Regional differences can also impact public opinion. Rural and urban residents may have distinct views on issues related to infrastructure, healthcare access, and gun control.

5. Religion: Religious beliefs and affiliations can influence opinions on moral and social issues, such as abortion, same-sex marriage, and religious freedom.

6. Socialization: Early life experiences and socialization within families, communities, and peer groups can shape individuals' values and beliefs. These influences can persist throughout adulthood.

7. Economic Conditions: Economic conditions, such as employment status and income stability, can impact views on economic policies, taxation, and government assistance programs.

8. Cultural Factors: Cultural factors, including cultural norms and traditions, can affect attitudes and behaviors on a wide range of issues, from family structure to environmental conservation.

9. Personal Experiences: Personal experiences, such as encounters with discrimination, access to healthcare, or interactions with the criminal justice system, can shape opinions on related issues.

10. Events and Crises: Major events, crises, and disasters can have a profound impact on public opinion. For example, a natural disaster or a public health crisis may lead to shifts in attitudes toward emergency preparedness or healthcare.

11. Social Movements: Social movements and advocacy campaigns can mobilize public opinion and lead to changes in attitudes and policies. Movements for civil rights, women's rights, and environmental protection, for instance, have influenced public opinion and government actions.

12. Education: Levels of education can influence critical thinking, access to information, and the ability to evaluate complex issues. Highly educated individuals may have different perspectives on issues requiring specialized knowledge.

13. Peer Influence: The opinions of friends, family members, and social networks can have a significant impact on individual beliefs and behaviors. People often adopt the views of those they trust and respect.

Public opinion is not monolithic; it encompasses a wide spectrum of perspectives and views. Polls and surveys are used to measure and track public opinion on various issues, providing insights into the diversity of opinions within society. Policymakers and leaders often consider public opinion when making decisions, as it can impact elections, policy choices, and public support for government actions.

Public opinion can have significant effects on various aspects of society, politics, and policymaking. It plays a crucial role in shaping government policies, influencing the behavior of elected officials, and impacting social and cultural change. Here are some of the key effects of public opinion:

1. Elections and Voting Behavior:

   • Public opinion plays a central role in elections. Candidates often tailor their campaigns and platforms to align with the views and preferences of voters.
   • Voter turnout and choices are influenced by public opinion. High levels of public support for a particular candidate or party can lead to electoral victories.

2. Policy Formation and Implementation:

   • Public opinion can shape the policy agenda, as policymakers often prioritize issues that have widespread public support or that are of particular concern to their constituents.
   • Elected officials may adjust their policy positions based on changing public sentiment to maintain electoral support.

3. Accountability and Representation:

   • Elected representatives are accountable to their constituents, and public opinion serves as a mechanism for holding them accountable for their actions and decisions.
   • Public opinion helps ensure that elected officials represent the interests and values of their constituents, as they may face electoral consequences if they do not.

4. Legislation and Laws:

   • Public opinion can influence the passage and rejection of legislation. Lawmakers may be more likely to support bills that have strong public backing.
   • Controversial or unpopular policies may face resistance, protests, or legal challenges from the public, which can affect their implementation and enforcement.

5. Social and Cultural Change:

   • Public opinion can drive social and cultural change by challenging prevailing norms and values. Movements for civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental protection, for example, gained momentum in part due to changing public opinion.
   • Media and popular culture can reflect and influence public opinion, further contributing to social change.

6. Public Opinion and the Courts:

   • The judiciary may take public opinion into account when interpreting and ruling on legal matters. Landmark Supreme Court decisions, such as those related to civil rights and marriage equality, have been influenced by evolving public attitudes.

7. Foreign Policy and International Relations:

   • Public opinion can affect a country's foreign policy decisions, particularly when it comes to issues like international conflicts, trade agreements, and alliances.
   • Leaders may consider public sentiment when making decisions that involve global affairs.

8. Public Opinion and Media Influence:

   • Media outlets may respond to public preferences by covering certain stories or issues more extensively, which can further shape public opinion.
   • The media can also serve as a platform for the dissemination of information and arguments that influence public perception.

9. Mobilization and Activism:

   • Strong public opinion on a particular issue can lead to grassroots mobilization and activism. Advocacy groups and social movements often rely on public support to push for policy changes.
   • Protests, rallies, and advocacy campaigns can draw attention to specific issues and put pressure on policymakers.

10. Political Behavior:

    • Public opinion can influence political behavior, including participation in political activities, donations to campaigns, and engagement in political discussions.
    • Political parties and interest groups may adjust their strategies and messaging to align with public opinion.

In summary, public opinion is a dynamic force that shapes democratic processes, government decisions, and societal change. It serves as a critical link between citizens and their elected representatives, helping to ensure accountability and responsiveness in democratic systems. The effects of public opinion are far-reaching and can have a profound impact on the direction and policies of a nation.

The politics of public opinion refers to the complex interplay between public attitudes, political decision-making, and the broader political landscape. Public opinion plays a pivotal role in democratic systems, influencing the behavior of politicians, the policy agenda, and electoral outcomes. Here are some key aspects of the politics of public opinion:

1. Policy Formation and Prioritization:

   • Public opinion can shape the policy agenda by highlighting issues that are of concern to the public. Policymakers often prioritize topics with widespread public support or those that resonate with their constituents.

2. Elections and Campaigns:

   • Political candidates and parties closely monitor public opinion to craft their campaign messages and strategies. They aim to align their platforms with the preferences of voters.
   • Polling data is used to gauge the electoral prospects of candidates and to identify swing constituencies that may be pivotal in determining election outcomes.

3. Legislative Decision-Making:

   • Elected representatives are attentive to public opinion because they seek re-election. Public support for or opposition to proposed legislation can influence the voting behavior of lawmakers.
   • Lawmakers may adjust their positions or voting behavior to align with changing public sentiment on key issues.

4. Accountability and Responsiveness:

   • Public opinion serves as a mechanism for holding elected officials accountable for their actions. Politicians may be rewarded or punished at the ballot box based on their performance and policy decisions.
   • Regular elections provide opportunities for the public to express their approval or disapproval of the incumbent government.

5. Policy Feedback and Implementation:

   • Public opinion can affect the implementation and enforcement of policies. Controversial or unpopular policies may encounter resistance or noncompliance from the public.
   • Public feedback and reactions can prompt adjustments or revisions to policies to address public concerns.

6. Media Influence:

   • Media outlets can influence public opinion by framing issues, selecting which stories to cover, and presenting information in particular ways.
   • The media's role in shaping public perception can impact political discourse and the public's understanding of important topics.

7. Interest Groups and Advocacy:

   • Interest groups, advocacy organizations, and social movements often use public opinion to build support for their causes and influence policy decisions.
   • These groups may conduct research, surveys, and public campaigns to mobilize public opinion in their favor.

8. Party Platforms and Positioning:

   • Political parties may adjust their platforms and policy positions to align with evolving public opinion. Parties aim to appeal to a broad base of voters.
   • Internal debates within parties can reflect differing interpretations of public opinion and party ideology.

9. Judicial Decisions and Public Opinion:

   • The judiciary, including the Supreme Court, may consider public opinion when issuing rulings, particularly on contentious social and political issues.
   • Public attitudes on issues like civil rights and marriage equality have influenced the timing and nature of legal decisions.

10. Public Opinion and Foreign Policy:

    • Public opinion can influence a country's foreign policy decisions, such as decisions related to international conflicts, trade agreements, and alliances.
    • Leaders may consider the public's stance on global issues when making foreign policy choices.

The politics of public opinion underscores the importance of public attitudes in democratic governance. It reflects the interconnected relationship between the preferences of citizens, the actions of elected officials, and the broader political landscape. Public opinion is a dynamic force that both reflects and shapes the political environment in democratic societies.

A scientific poll, as opposed to an informal or non-scientific poll, follows rigorous methodologies and principles to gather and analyze data from a representative sample of the population. There are several key reasons why scientific polling is preferred and considered more reliable:

1. Accuracy: Scientific polls aim to provide accurate and unbiased estimates of public opinion. They use random sampling techniques to ensure that every member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample. This reduces the potential for selection bias, where certain groups are overrepresented or underrepresented.

2. Representativeness: Scientific polls strive to create samples that are representative of the broader population. By using probability sampling methods, such as random digit dialing for telephone polls or random sampling for online surveys, researchers aim to capture a cross-section of the population's diversity, including various demographic groups and geographic regions.

3. Minimizing Sampling Error: Scientific polls are designed to minimize sampling error, which is the natural variation in survey results that occurs due to the random selection of respondents. This is accomplished by selecting a sufficiently large sample size, which reduces the margin of error and increases the precision of estimates.

4. Question Wording and Design: Scientific polls carefully craft questions to minimize bias and ensure clarity. Researchers use established principles of survey design to avoid leading questions, response order effects, and other sources of measurement error that can affect responses.

5. Data Analysis: Scientific polls employ rigorous data analysis techniques to interpret the survey results accurately. Weighting procedures may be applied to correct for any imbalances in the sample, and statistical tests can assess the significance of differences in responses.

6. Reliability and Validity: Scientific polls are designed to be reliable, producing consistent results when repeated under similar conditions. They also aim for validity, ensuring that the survey measures what it intends to measure (e.g., public opinion on a specific issue).

7. Generalizability: The results of scientific polls are generally considered more generalizable to the broader population because of their representative samples. This means that the findings can be applied to the entire population with a certain level of confidence.

8. Accountability and Transparency: Scientific polling organizations adhere to ethical and professional standards, and they are often transparent about their methods, including sample size, sampling techniques, and any potential sources of bias. This allows for accountability and scrutiny of their work.

9. Public Trust: Scientific polls are conducted by reputable organizations, which helps build trust among the public and policymakers. The reliability and credibility of scientific polls contribute to their influence in shaping public discourse and policy decisions.

10. Informed Decision-Making: Scientific polls provide valuable insights into public opinion, which can inform decision-making by governments, businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations. Policymakers and leaders often rely on scientific polling data to gauge public sentiment and preferences.

During the socialization process, individuals are influenced by a variety of factors, including family, peers, education, media, and culture. The relative strength of these influences can vary depending on the individual's circumstances and stage of development. However, several scholars and theories in sociology and psychology have identified the family as one of the strongest and most foundational influences during the socialization process. Here's why:

1. Proximity and Duration: Family is often the primary social unit to which an individual is exposed from birth. The family is typically the closest and most enduring social environment for children, and it plays a vital role in shaping early socialization experiences.

2. Primary Socialization Agent: Family serves as the primary agent of socialization during a person's formative years. Parents and caregivers are responsible for teaching fundamental values, norms, and behaviors to children. These early lessons set the foundation for a person's understanding of the world.

3. Emotional Bonds: The emotional bonds and attachments formed within the family are powerful. Children often model their behavior, values, and social interactions based on the examples set by parents and caregivers whom they love and trust.

4. Cultural and Moral Values: Families transmit cultural, moral, and ethical values that are specific to their cultural, religious, or regional backgrounds. These values shape a person's worldview and guide their decisions and actions.

5. Norms and Role Modeling: Family members demonstrate social norms and roles through their daily interactions. Children observe and learn about gender roles, interpersonal relationships, and societal expectations within the family context.

6. Socialization of Identity: Family plays a significant role in the socialization of identity, including aspects of gender, ethnicity, race, and religion. Family members provide children with a sense of belonging and identity within these larger social categories.

7. Emotional and Psychological Development: Early interactions within the family influence emotional and psychological development. Attachment styles, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms are shaped by family experiences.

8. Language and Communication: Language acquisition and communication skills are developed within the family. Family members teach children how to communicate, express emotions, and understand social cues.

9. Social and Cultural Capital: Family background, including socioeconomic status, educational attainment, and cultural capital, can significantly influence a person's opportunities and life chances. Children from different family backgrounds may have varying access to resources and opportunities.

10. Resilience and Coping Skills: Families also contribute to an individual's resilience and ability to cope with challenges. The family environment can either support or hinder a person's ability to navigate adversity and stress.

While family is a foundational influence, it's important to note that other agents of socialization, such as peers, education, media, and culture, also play essential roles in shaping an individual's beliefs, behaviors, and identity as they grow and develop. The strength of these influences may change over time and vary among individuals, but the family's impact on early socialization is widely recognized as profound and enduring.

While informal polls or surveys may have their place in certain contexts, such as informal feedback or social media engagement, they lack the methodological rigor and reliability of scientific polls. In important matters, such as elections, policy decisions, and public sentiment analysis, scientific polling is preferred because it provides a more accurate and trustworthy reflection of public opinion.

"Horse race" coverage, in the context of politics, refers to media coverage that focuses on the competitive aspects of political campaigns and elections rather than on the substantive policy issues. This type of coverage often emphasizes the tactics, strategies, and poll numbers of political candidates, treating elections as a competitive race rather than as forums for discussing important policy matters. There are several reasons why horse race coverage is popular:

1. Simplicity: Horse race coverage provides a simplified narrative for complex political events. It's easier for the media to frame elections as a competition between candidates rather than delve into the intricacies of policy debates.

2. Drama and Conflict: Political campaigns are inherently dramatic and competitive. Horse race coverage capitalizes on the conflict and drama of campaigns, making politics more engaging and entertaining for the audience.

3. Visual Appeal: The competitive nature of elections lends itself to visual storytelling. Media outlets can use graphics, charts, and statistics to create engaging visuals that capture the ebb and flow of campaigns.

4. Instant Gratification: Horse race coverage can provide quick updates and immediate results. It satisfies the audience's desire for instant information and results, especially in the age of 24-hour news cycles and social media.

5. Partisan Divides: In polarized political environments, coverage that focuses on the competition between parties and candidates can reinforce partisan identities and mobilize supporters. People often want to know how their preferred candidate or party is faring in the "race."

6. Ratings and Revenue: Media outlets are driven by viewership and advertising revenue. Horse race coverage, with its potential for high drama and audience engagement, can attract more viewers and advertisers.

7. Predictions and Speculation: The media and pundits often engage in predictions and speculation about election outcomes. This can create a sense of excitement and anticipation, keeping audiences tuned in.

8. Competitive Nature of News Industry: The news industry itself is highly competitive, and media outlets strive to outdo one another in breaking news and covering events in a way that captures the public's attention. Horse race coverage can be seen as a way to "win" the competition for viewers and readers.

9. Audience Demand: Surveys and studies have shown that many viewers and readers are more interested in the "horse race" aspect of politics than in policy details. Media outlets respond to this demand by providing the type of coverage that attracts the most attention.

10. Sound Bites and Quotable Moments: Competitive campaigns often produce memorable sound bites, debates, and moments that are widely discussed and shared. These moments generate buzz and provide content for news coverage.

Political polarization refers to the increasing ideological and partisan divisions within a society, particularly in the context of politics and public discourse. It is characterized by a growing ideological gap between individuals or groups who hold opposing views, often resulting in more extreme and uncompromising positions. Here are key aspects of political polarization:

1. Ideological Divide: Political polarization typically involves a sharp divide between individuals or groups who identify with distinct ideological or political beliefs. This can manifest as a left-right or liberal-conservative divide.

2. Partisan Polarization: It also includes the polarization of political parties and their supporters. Parties become more ideologically distinct and less likely to work across the aisle.

3. Increased Hostility: Polarization often leads to heightened political hostility. People on opposite sides of the ideological spectrum may view each other with suspicion, hostility, or even as enemies.

4. Echo Chambers: With the rise of social media and online news consumption, like-minded individuals tend to congregate in digital echo chambers where their beliefs and opinions are reinforced, and dissenting views are marginalized.

5. Media Polarization: Media outlets may become ideologically polarized, catering to specific partisan audiences and reinforcing existing beliefs. This can contribute to the spread of misinformation and echo chamber dynamics.

6. Policy Gridlock: As political polarization intensifies, it becomes more challenging for lawmakers to find common ground and pass legislation. Gridlock in government can result from ideological rigidity and unwillingness to compromise.

7. Identity Politics: Polarization can be linked to identity politics, where political affiliations are closely tied to one's personal identity, including factors such as race, religion, ethnicity, and social values.

8. Negative Campaigning: Political campaigns may increasingly rely on negative and polarizing rhetoric to mobilize their base and attack opponents. This can further divide the electorate.

9. Social and Cultural Polarization: Political polarization can extend into social and cultural issues, including debates over immigration, social justice, and identity issues.

10. Effects on Trust and Institutions: High levels of polarization can erode trust in political institutions, including government, the media, and the judiciary. Citizens may become skeptical of the fairness and legitimacy of these institutions.

11. Policy Implications: Polarization can influence policy decisions, often leading to policy swings when one party gains power, resulting in reversals of policies implemented by the opposing party.

12. International Implications: Polarization can affect a country's international relations and alliances. Domestic political divisions may impact foreign policy decisions and alliances.

13. Social Fragmentation: In extreme cases, political polarization can lead to social fragmentation and even unrest. Extreme political polarization has been associated with social conflict and violence in some societies.

Addressing political polarization is a complex challenge that involves fostering a more inclusive and civil public discourse, encouraging compromise and cooperation, and reducing the influence of factors that reinforce polarization, such as media echo chambers and extreme partisanship. Reducing polarization often requires efforts at multiple levels of society, including political leadership, media organizations, educational institutions, and grassroots efforts to promote constructive dialogue and understanding among citizens with differing views

It's important to note that while horse race coverage can be engaging and entertaining, it also has its critics. Some argue that it prioritizes style over substance and can lead to a shallow understanding of important policy issues. Balancing horse race coverage with substantive policy reporting is a challenge that many media outlets face in order to provide comprehensive political journalism.

Why should a poll be scientific rather than informal?

Having a poll that's scientific is better because it uses information like geological information, political affiliations, income, gender and race which are more exact then relying  on  opinions which is what informal is based on. Also scientific poll accounts for diverse census data and giving the option to focus on specific targeted groups. Which then will supply more exact results and less bias for the person taking the pole and lowers the possibility of human error. Informal polls refer to straw vote which is unofficial vote. Informal only shows general opinion and only helps decision making for popular opinion for upcoming elections. But with scientific polls you are getting more then just the opinionated version from people which includes a lot more data. I think of it like asking people to vote on what ice cream is the best out of pecan and chocolate. But 40% of the people have allergies to nuts when scientific data is pooled for the vote. If you ask people who they want to vote for you don't always get the why or reason which is why scientific data is much more accurate.

American Government Chapter 6 Quiz

Question 1 1 / 1 pts Which of the following is the strongest influence during the socialization process? Friends Teachers Events Correct!Parents Question 2 1 / 1 pts Why is horserace coverage so popular? It is the most accurate way to determine an election winner. Correct!The public is always interested in who will win. It offers a negative portrayal of the candidates. It offers a positive portrayal of the candidates. Question 3 1 / 1 pts When a pollster attempts to influence the respondents' opinions, this is known as _________. exit polling Correct!push polling robo-polling benchmark polling Question 4 1 / 1 pts Which of the following is true about the relationship between judicial decision making and public opinion? Judges are more likely to contradict latent majority opinions. Correct!Research findings are contradictory. Judges are more likely to engage in judicial restraint against the favor of the majority opinion. Judges are more likely to mirror latent majority opinions. Question 5 1 / 1 pts What is an agent of political socialization? A source of political information intended to stop citizens from making decisions on political matters A source of political information intended to help organizations make decisions on political matters Correct!A source of political information intended to help citizens make decisions on political matters A source of political information intended to stop candidates from making decisions on political matters Question 6 1 / 1 pts In order to aggregate responses in a manner that reflects the quantified opinions of the population under study, the researcher must collect a ______. marginal sample Correct!representative sample responsive sample complete sample Question 7 1 / 1 pts Which of the following affects our personal beliefs and represents preferences based on life experiences? Socialization agents Political socialization Childhood Correct!Attitudes Question 8 1 / 1 pts Which margin of error is more predictive? Correct!+/- 5 +/- 10 +/- 15 +/- 20 Question 9 1 / 1 pts Which of the following is used to identify the increasing ideological homogeneity of political parties? Hyperpartisanship Correct!Polarization Partisanship Tradeoffs Question 10 1 / 1 pts Opinion polls have the greatest measured effect for which of the following? Identification of key policies Distribution of power Correct!Elections Legalization of drugs Question 11 1 / 1 pts How do citizens form an opinion about an issue or candidate? Correct!Heuristics and research Conversations with candidates and friends Following the lead of neighbors Attend rallies and social events Question 12 1 / 1 pts Which of the following is a measure of how positively voters feel about a candidate? Gallup Index Correct!Favorability polls Theory of delegate representation Bandwagon polls Question 13 1 / 1 pts What is a representative sample? A group whose demographic distribution is similar to the largest state’s population Correct!A group whose demographic distribution is similar to the overall population of the United States A group whose demographic distribution is similar to the world’s population A group whose demographic distribution is similar to the overall population of Washington, D.C. Question 14 1 / 1 pts What type of sample consists of a limited number of people from the overall population, where each has an equal chance of being chosen? Correct!Random sample Polling sample Representative sample Marginal sample Question 15 1 / 1 pts Which of the following are Millennials and Gen Xers most likely to favor? Republicans Independents Correct!Democrats Libertarians Question 16 1 / 1 pts What of the following does NOT affect the development of your political beliefs? Catastrophic events Your parents identity Correct!Your major Your schooling Question 17 1 / 1 pts The ideological spectrum in American political culture is _______. left-leaning Correct!a visual representation which presents a range of views relating to beliefs about equality of society and control of society right-leaning a range of beliefs from Republicans on the far-right to Democrats on the far-left Question 18 1 / 1 pts A poll with a high level of accuracy will have a _______ margin of error. Correct!lower increasing decreasing higher Question 19 1 / 1 pts Which of the following is a heuristic for voting? Correct!Gender Height and weight Level of fluency in English Country of origin Question 20 1 / 1 pts How is public opinion about American institutions measured? Opinion polls Voter turnout Correct! Public approval ratings Straw polls