What are the roles of mass media, peer groups, and opinion leaders in influencing public opinion?

Public affairs

events and issues that concern the people at large (politics making of public policies)

 public opinion

those attitudes held by a significant number of people on matters of government and politics

 mass media

those means of communication that reach large, widely dispersed audiences simultaneously

 peer group

those people with whom one regularly associates, including friends, classmates, co-workers, and neighbors

 opinion leader

any person who has an unusually strong influence on the views of others

 What factors shape public opinion?

family, school, race, occupation, gender, mass media, peer groups, opinion leaders, historic events

 Are public opinions generally the same?

No. There are many different public opinions. Additionally, people disagree about which public issues are important. Few issues capture the attention of all Americans. Most issues are of little interest to the majority.

 What are some examples of public affairs?

political parties, candidates, taxes, unemployment, national defense, foreign policy

 How are public affairs and public opinion related?

Public opinions are formed about public affairs.

 Political socialization

the process by which a person gains his or her political views

 How does the family affect a person's political views?

Children tend to favor the political parties supported in the households in which they were raised. Schools prepare students to become good citizens. Occupation and racial background play a significant role as well.

 How does mass media affect public opinion?

Television is one of the biggest mediums between ideas and the people. Other mediums include radio, magazines, and newspapers.

 How do peer groups affect a person's political views?

People may be reluctant to disagree with others and/or already share in the same beliefs and do similar things that express these views.

 Who can be an opinion leader?

Anyone from a journalist to a congressman.

 How have historic events shaped public opinion and policies?

The Great Depression devastated the economy and shifted popular support for Democrats.

 mandate

the instructions a constituency gives its elected officials

 interest group

a private group that works to shape the making of public policy