PSCI 211 Public Opinion and Political Behavior (Not offered 1998-99; to be offered 1999-2000)

The focus of this course is the role of public opinion in democracy. How do events and crises influence the formation of and change of public opinion? When and under what conditions can pressure groups and the mass media influence the formation of public opinion on current domestic and international issues? Can public opinion influence individual voter's choices? What strengthens or weakens public opinion's influence on political leaders. Each student selects an area of public opinion of his or her particular interest (e.g., racial attitudes, abortion, nuclear freeze, changing ideological beliefs, equality) to analyze what is known about public opinion in that area. Requirements: one hour midterm exam and a project report. Prerequisite, Psychology 101 or Political Science 101. American Politics Subfield

MARCUS