Meaning and definition of public opinion - SS1 Government Past Questions and Answers - page 1

Views and attitudes held by a group of people

Personal experiences

It can inform and guide policy decisions made by government officials

The way issues are framed and presented

Government regulations

Interest groups and political parties can use public opinion to mobilize support for their causes and candidates through various means, such as advertising, public rallies, and social media campaigns. This can be beneficial for democracy by allowing citizens to express their views and participate in the political process, but it can also lead to polarization and the marginalization of minority opinions.

The media can influence public opinion through the way issues are framed and presented, as well as through the use of selective reporting and editorial bias. This can be problematic if the media is not objective or balanced in its coverage, as it can distort public perceptions and undermine trust in democratic institutions.