Chapter 3 - Public Opinion

Question 1

Political Socialization

Answer 1

When you are socialized growing up to develop your political opinions.

Question 2

George Gallup

Answer 2

Father of modern polling

Question 3

Changes in Polling in the 1930s

Answer 3

They changed from solicited opinion (voluntary) vs polling opinion (certain people are selected randomly)
Random sampling made samples representative

Question 4

Issues with Polling (BLT - N)

Answer 4

1. Low response rate - The rate of people answering has decreased significantly
2. Technology - Methodology of landlines and stuff aren’t truly random
3. Nuance - yes or no answers oversimplify nuanced issues.
4. Band-wagon effect

Question 5

Policy and Polling

Answer 5

Polling has had a major effect on the use of public opinion. Has pushed towards more democracy than elitism I guess. It allows politicians to keep their ear to the ground.

Question 6

Delegate v Trustee Model

Answer 6

Delegates just vote exactly with the wishes of their constituents. This is a democratic perspective.
Trustees are voted in with their expertise and vote how they think is best. This is an elitist perspective.