Polling, Policy, and Public Opinion : The Case Against Heeding the 'Voice of the People'

The opinion poll has become commonplace in politics and typically reveals public desires for greater government social welfare assistance, such as more aid for education or health care. These statistics seem to proclaim the welfare state's enduring popularity. Though sincere, these desires largely reflect how questions are asked. Unfortunately, polls usually lack basic economic restraints. There are no costs, risks or disasters in the world of polling. Market-based solutions are routinely excluded. This book works to reveal these shortcomings and clearly demonstrates why a government ruled by the vox populi would be folly. Front Matter....Pages i-xii Public Opinion, Polling, and Politics....Pages 1-16 From Wishes to Hard Choices....Pages 17-48 Civic Competence....Pages 49-70 Public Opinion I: Policies and Questions....Pages 71-93 Public Opinion II: Fervent Desires....Pages 95-138 Bestowing the Democratic Mantle....Pages 139-173 Conclusions....Pages 175-193 Back Matter....Pages 195-232