POLI 2051 Chapter : Poli Sci Public Opinion
Document Summary
Public opinion: definition: the collected attitudes of citizens on a given issue or question. -because in a democracy, there must be some link between what the public thinks, and what the government does. The nature of that link can vary greatly. It"s the delegate vs. trustee distinctions we made earlier (delegate=votes on public opinion, trustee= votes how he sees best) There is also the question of whether the public is capable of governing. The people may be motivated to become active in politics. Political socialization: a complex process through which individuals become aware of. -are ignorant of much that goes on politically. -rely heavily on cues and shortcuts rather than informed issue positions. Another way to answer this question is to consider who is most interested in public opinion. Academics seek to understand why people behave the way they do. Where does it come from? politics, learn political facts, Important to remember that socialization occurs throughout our lives.
