Lecture
4-1
Public
Opinion Major Themes
In general, policy decision follow the lines
supported by public opinion
Public opinion operating in a marketplace of
idea, but that market is not entirely free of the influence of governmental institutions
seeking to manipulate it.
Public
Opinion Major Themes
The Constitution was designed so the public
opinion does not automatically translate into policy. Where policy and public opinion do not match, it is often the
result of a greater interest in the policy by a nominal minority than is
attached to the policy by the majority
The
Character of Public Opinion
Public opinion is a combination of the views,
attitudes, and ideas held by individuals in the community.
Some facets of public opinion are constant
Other facets a dynamic
Some opinions are held intensely while other are
held casually
What
Americans Hold in Common
Americans believe generally in their capacity to
do what is best for themselves
They therefore believe that individuals should
be free to act as they please, as long as they do not interfere with others
peoples freedom to do whatever they want.
What
Americans Hold in Common
Consent of the governed
Capitalism and the free enterprise system
Where
Americans Differ
Over the meaning of equality
In setting the limits of freedom
Over adherence to minority rights
In their willingness to accept true free
enterprise
Where
Americans Differ
In their political ideology: liberal, moderate,
and conservative
In the degree to which ideological labels are
important, but they will respond with positions on issues when candidates
address issues.