Public opinion

Definition

Public opinion is the collective preferences and attitudes of people on various issues, policies, and individuals, especially as it relates to governance and public affairs. It is shaped by social, economic, and political factors and can influence government action and policy.

Related terms

Polling:

The process of collecting data from samples of respondents to gauge public opinion on various topics.

Political Socialization:

The lifelong process by which people form their ideas about politics and acquire political values.

Media Influence:

The effect that media has in shaping public perception and opinion through dissemination of information or propaganda