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Public Opinion vs Public Policy

Several theories have been developed on the relationship between public opinion and public policy. As philosophy as a general study has grown, so have the theories of this relationship. The major controversy that exists between prevailing theories whether social and political action is a centralized process by the ruling class, each representing key social demographics and opinions or whether it is a conglomeration of independent and autonomous special interest groups. In other words, public policy is either formed as part of a single centralised system, or it is formed as a result of several different smaller organizations based on cultural and social influence.

Public Opinion Studies

Public opinion studies have become the standard when it comes to politics and political action. It is a highly developed process accomplished through random sample surveys. Governments around the world use these surveys in measuring the effect of public policy and as guidance in developing new public policies. These surveys have also spawned a body of people who hold the responsibility of attempting to alter public opinion. These are public relations experts and politically biased media. Many forms of advertising also attempt to sway public opinion for business purposes.