Course Description
Major methods and findings of survey research, with particular attention to attitudes and beliefs and their implications for the role of citizens in a representative democracy.
Athena Title
PUB OPIN AMER DEMO
Prerequisite
POLS 1101
Semester Course Offered
Not offered on a regular basis.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This course is designed to introduce students to the study of public opinion in the American context. A primary course component consists of understanding the measurement of public opinion via the use of scientific polling. In addition, students will be exposed to various political science theories relating to the topics such as political socialization, the linkage between opinion and policy outcomes, the determinants of opinion formation at the individual level, and the effect of mediating groups such as the media on opinion. Students will be required to critically evaluate, discuss, and apply these theories in both written and oral contexts. Students may be evaluated using a variety of devices, including exams, research papers, and class discussions and/or presentations.
Topical Outline
Public Opinion and Democracy Polling Micro-Level Determinants of Opinion Political Socialization Groups and Opinion The Media and Public Opinion Interest Groups, Political Parties, and Opinion Public Opinion and Elections The Opinion-Policy Linkage
Syllabus