(a) Define public opinion. (b) Highlight three ways by which Public Opinion can be formed. (c) In what three ways can Public Opinion be encouraged in your c...

Answer Details

(a) Definition of public opinion. Public opinion is the collective view, belief or attitude held and expressed by a considerable number of citizens on a matter of public interest at a particular time. It is the aggregate of the opinions of the generality of the people on an issue affecting the community, and government in a democracy is expected to take it into account.

(b) Three ways by which public opinion can be formed.

1. Through the mass media: Newspapers, radio, television and the internet report events and comment on issues, thereby shaping the views of the public.
2. Through political parties and pressure groups: These organisations articulate positions on public questions and mobilise citizens to accept and support their views.
3. Through discussion and interaction in society: Debates in schools, religious bodies, town-hall meetings, markets and social gatherings, as well as the influence of opinion leaders, help to form and crystallise public opinion.

(c) Three ways public opinion can be encouraged in my country.

1. Guaranteeing freedom of expression and of the press: When citizens and the media are free to speak and publish without fear, opinions can be freely formed and expressed.
2. Promoting mass education and political enlightenment: An educated and informed citizenry is better able to understand issues and to form sound opinions.
3. Providing avenues for expression such as free elections, public hearings and opinion polls: Regular elections, referenda, public hearings and the use of opinion surveys give the people channels through which their views can be gathered and made to count.