Public opinion refers to views and ideas expressed by

Public opinion refers to the collective views, beliefs, and attitudes expressed by a group of people or society on a particular issue or topic. It can be the views and ideas expressed by citizens about government policies, social issues, or any other matter of public concern. Public opinion can also be expressed by government officials or leaders who are accountable to the public, and who may take the opinions of the public into consideration when making decisions. However, public opinion is not just the opinion of the elites or a particular group, but rather the view of the general public. Therefore, the views expressed by students or any other group would be a part of public opinion only if they are representative of the larger society or community.