Public opinion on the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009

In 2009, President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These are additional funding measures that were implemented to deal with the adverse effects of the Great Recession. The way it was going to achieve these objectives was by focusing on a number of factors including: tax incentives, increases in health care and education spending. ("The Recovery Act," 2009)

The basic goal was to have the federal government provide additional assistance to firms and the public in dealing with the adverse economic consequences. To determine the opinions of the program requires carefully examining the methodology that will be utilized. Once this happens, is when actuaries will have procedures for objectively analyzing the various responses. ("The Recovery Act," 2009)

How would you select your subjects for research?

The subjects will be selected randomly. This will occur by asking different demographics of people if they want to participate in the survey. At the same time, researchers will ensure that various racial and ethnic groups are represented from the 2010 census. This will make certain that the sample is looking at wide variety of views from contrasting segments. (Buchanan, 2009)

What ethical concerns or actions would be needed?

The ethical concerns are that researchers could influence the responses of participants. This is problematic, as it is will make the results and findings of the study inaccurate. To prevent this, an anonymous survey will be provided. Respondents will not have to give their name or any personal information. At the same time, the subjects will receive a disclosure document that will state how the information will be used. (Buchanan, 2009)

What do you think the sample will tell you and why?

The sample will show that there are tremendous divisions with the law and its overall impact on the economy. This means that there will be contrasting views based upon the individual's political persuasion and their thoughts on government spending. The results are that there will be different opinions about: the program, the use of these funds and their long-term effect. These insights are important, as they will highlight the mood of the general public and what they think about the actions taken by the federal government. It is at this point when larger trends can be developed based upon the conclusions that are reached in the study. (Buchanan, 2009)