Mass Media & Public Opinion The Formation of Public Opinion Section 1 Pgs

What is Public Opinion opinions of many different persons. It includes only those views that relate to matters of public affairs.

Factors that Shape Public Opinion Family Schools Opinion Leaders Mass Media Peer Groups Historic Events Mix of Factors

Family Children begin to learn here first. Children will pick up some basic attitudes that will most likely affect their future opinions.

School Schools teach the values of the American political system. They indoctrinate children to become “good citizens” Must take Civics or American Govt.

Mix of Factors Mass Media Peer Groups Opinion Leaders Historic Events

Mass Media Television, radio, books magazines & newspapers. Mass media has a large influence on public opinion.

Peer Groups People trust views of friends Tend to think along same lines Most people want to be liked by their friends & associates

Opinion Leaders Public office, teachers, priests. Some write in newspapers or are on television or radio. Ex: Rush Limbaugh

Historic Events Great Depression-changed the way people viewed the place of govt & change of party loyalty Assassinations of John Kennedy, MLK, Bobby Kennedy ~ civil right movement, Vietnam War 9/11/01