POSC289L - Public Opinion and Politics

3 Credit(s)

Liberal Arts
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of the role of public opinion in American politics. The course examines how public opinion is measured and shapes political debate; how political players influence public opinion; and how mainstream and new media inform the process. Students will study how public opinion research activities are implemented by public pollsters and campaign consultants in an election setting; how pollsters, campaign consultants, and the media deal with public opinion and polls; and, what are the ethical and political implications in American politics today of how public opinion is considered. Students will have the opportunity to meet and dialogue with leading experts in public opinion, politics, and the media through a series of seminars.

Prerequisite(s): POSC 110L