Theory question 104
Public Opinion and Mass Media(a) Define public opinion. (b) Highlight three ways by which public opinion can be formed.
(b) In what three ways can public opinion be encouraged in your country?
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(a) Public opinion is the views or feelings held by a large number of people on public issues or government policies at a particular time.
(b) Formation (any three): mass media; family, school and religious bodies; political parties; pressure groups; opinion leaders; public lectures, rallies and seminars; social media.
(b, second part) Encouragement (any three): guarantee freedom of speech and the press; independent and free media; political education; tolerance of opposition and criticism; regular free elections and referenda; town-hall meetings and public hearings; allowing pressure groups to operate freely.
The book prints two parts labelled (b); answer both.