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Public opinion it can only exist in the context of a democratic society?
In a democratic society, it is presumed that information flows freely and that all citizens have equal access to information. On the contrary, it is also presumed that in undemocratic societies, the press is restricted. Citizens do not have access to information and therefore, the ability of people to form opinions is limited. Freedom of press is generally restricted in undemocratic societies and at least legally supported in democratic ones. However, democracy is not a prerequisite for public opinion. Public opinion can most certainly exist outside of the context of a democratic society. Moreover, public opinion in the context of a democratic society is often restricted due to issues like media conglomeration and poor educational systems.
A democratic society's political culture depends directly on public opinion, whereas an undemocratic society is structured so that public opinion has little bearing on issues like public policy, who holds positions of power, and legislation. In this sense, public opinion matters more in the context of a democratic society for practical outcomes. At the same time, an undemocratic society may be heavily influenced by outside influences including a global public opinion. Pressure on undemocratic regimes can and sometimes do lead to political transformation and social change, but not very often. Public opinion therefore has more merit in democratic vs. undemocratic societies.
In undemocratic societies, public...
One method is via new media, which is why the Internet is restricted in nations with government-controlled media and undemocratic political structures. Access to information is a foundation of public opinion; or at least, a foundation of informed public opinion. In the United States and other nations with unfettered access to most types of information, public opinion can be readily formed through education, the media, and new media. The only restrictions on public opinion formation in democratic societies include the quality of the education system and the quality of the media outlets operating in that country.
Public opinion can have a direct impact on domestic and foreign policy, but mainly in democratic societies. In undemocratic societies, public opinion is meaningless for informing legislation and public policy. In democratic societies, elected officials respond to their constituents. The reverse is also true in that constituents elect officials based on those persons' backgrounds and beliefs regarding issues ranging from the economy to the environment. Therefore, public opinion determines the prevailing public policy and political culture.
Public opinion reflects values and norms, which change fairly rapidly. For example, public opinion on issues like marriage equality and drug policy has changed over the years. In a democracy, public opinion can eventually lead to policy change, even though that change may be slow. Undemocratic societies may be more stable…
political policy of interest and summarize that policy while contrasting it with my own position. In order to do this I have chosen Rep. Nancy Pelosi of California and her position on the legality of abortion. Before contrasting Ms. Pelosi's comments with my own I will give background information about this policy and how it affects the citizens of our country. Roe v Wade was the Supreme Court decision that
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Political Reasons Behind the Electricity Dilemma in Haiti What it will take to have electricity in Haiti Cost Cost is one of the significant factors that contribute significantly to the development of electricity in Haiti. Since the investment in the sector of electricity has been extremely slow, combining the aspects inclusive of the non-payment culture for electric services, low-based metered customers, and fair consumer tariffs contributes significantly to electricity accessibility. The consideration of
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