Author Question: How do elitists and pluralists view the proper role of public opinion in democracies? To what extent ... (Read 81 times)

joblessjake · **on:** Jul 8, 2018

How do elitists and pluralists view the proper role of public opinion in democracies? To what extent does the reality of Texas politics reflect their views? Do you think that public opinion should be more or less influential in shaping public policy? Why?

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Compare and contrast opinions of different social and demographic groups of Texans. How do group memberships impact individuals?

What will be an ideal response?

Jordin Calloway · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 8, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Explain the elitist and pluralist perspectives on the role of the connection between public opinion and public policy.
2. Contrast Texas with states that provide for recall elections, referenda, and initiatives.
3. Explain that the reality of Texas politics is a mix of elitism and pluralism, depending on things like the levels of public information and attentiveness regarding issues.
4. State and defend a position regarding the role of public opinion in shaping public policy.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Compare and contrast opinions as a function of party identification, gender, race and ethnicity, education, religiosity, and age.
2. Define and explain crosscutting cleavages and intersectionality.
3. Explain that individuals often belong to multiple groups that can impact their beliefs in different, and potentially opposing, ways.