Study GuideAmerican Government–Public Opinion1. Public Opinion and How It’s MeasuredPublic opinionrefers to the ideas, attitudes, and beliefs that Americans hold about issues facing thecountry. These opinions help shape political debates and can influence government decisions,especially when many people feel strongly about an issue.1.1How Public Opinion Forms and ChangesPublic opinion is oftendeeply divided on emotional or controversial issues, such as affirmativeaction or gay rights. On many topics, opinions changevery slowly, if they change at all. For example,Americans’ views onabortionhave stayed fairly stable since the early 1970s.Sometimes, however, opinions can shift more noticeably. A president’sapproval rating, for instance,often rises during a national crisis. After theSeptember 11, 2001 attacks, President George W.Bush’s approval rating increased sharply. Over time, though, it dropped significantly as publicopposition to thewar in Iraqgrew during his second term.1.2When Public Opinion Influences Policy—and When It Doesn’tIn rare cases where public opinion changes quickly and clearly,government policy often changestoo. Still, public opinion does not always determine what policies are adopted.One reason is that some groups feelmuch more intenselyabout certain issues than others. A goodexample isgun control. Although most Americans support stronger gun control laws, people whooppose such laws often feel more passionate and are more politically active. Their strong involvementcan give them more influence.Another important factor is theSupreme Court. Even when a majority of Americans support certainpolicies, the Court may rule against them if they violate the Constitution. For example, although manyAmericans supportschool prayeror lawsbanning flag burning, the Supreme Court has ruled thatsuch policies would infringe on the constitutional rights of minorities.Preview Mode
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