One Reason That Public Policy Often Differs from Public Opinion

question 49

Multiple Choice

 One reason that public policy often differs from public opinion is that 

• A) the U.S. Constitution places many checks on the influence of public opinion. 
• B) public opinion polling tends to express the opinions of a political elite. 
• C) public opinion is easy to gauge, whereas the effectiveness of public policy is not. 
• D) public opinion tends to change much more slowly than public policy. 
• E) public opinion is rarely informed at the beginning of the policymaking process.

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Definitions:

System-2 Thinking

A cognitive processing methodology that involves analytical, conscious, and rational thought, as opposed to intuitive and quick decisions.

System-1 Decision

Fast, automatic, intuitive responses or decisions, as categorized by dual-process theory in cognitive psychology.

Deliberating

The process of thoughtfully considering various aspects or options before making a decision.