Chapter 6 Public Opinion And Political Action

The Constitution requires an actual enumeration of the population every ten years. This is known as the decennial census. It is conducted to gather accurate and up-to-date information about the population, which is crucial for various purposes such as determining representation in Congress, allocating government resources, and making informed policy decisions. By conducting the census every ten years, the government ensures that it has the most recent data to effectively serve the needs of the population.

Political socialization refers to the process through which individuals develop their political beliefs, attitudes, and values. It involves the transmission of political knowledge, ideologies, and behaviors from one generation to another, as well as the influence of various social institutions such as family, education, media, and peers. This process plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' political orientations and their understanding of political systems and issues. Therefore, the given statement that the process of acquiring political orientations is called political socialization is true.

Civil disobedience refers to the deliberate and conscious act of breaking a law that is considered unjust or immoral, with the intention of bringing attention to the issue and promoting change. It involves willingly accepting the consequences, such as legal penalties or punishment, as a form of protest against the unjust law or policy. This nonviolent form of resistance is often used by individuals or groups to challenge authority and advocate for social justice or human rights.

Cultural diversity is often seen as a positive aspect of society as it brings different perspectives, traditions, and experiences together. It allows for a more inclusive and enriching environment where people can learn from one another and celebrate their differences. Many Americans appreciate the diverse range of cultures present in their society and value the opportunities it provides for personal growth and understanding.

The American "melting pot" refers to the mix of cultures, ideas, and people in the United States. This concept highlights the diverse and multicultural nature of American society, where people from different backgrounds come together, bringing their unique cultures and ideas, and contributing to the overall fabric of the nation. The phrase "all of the above" accurately captures the essence of the American melting pot, as it encompasses the mixture of cultures, ideas, and people that define the United States.

The given statement suggests that research consistently shows a correlation between higher social and economic status and greater political participation in America. This means that individuals who have higher social and economic standing are more likely to engage in political activities such as voting, attending public meetings, or joining political organizations. This finding highlights the unequal distribution of political power and influence, as it suggests that those with lower social and economic status may have less opportunity or inclination to participate in the political process.

As people grow older, their level of political participation tends to increase steadily. This can be attributed to several factors such as increased civic awareness, a sense of responsibility towards shaping the political landscape, and a desire to have a say in decision-making processes. Older individuals may have more time and resources to dedicate to political activities, such as attending rallies, joining advocacy groups, or running for office. Additionally, as they gain more life experience, they may become more politically engaged and motivated to make a difference in their communities.

The statement "No significant difference has ever been found between the ideological orientations of men and women" is incorrect. Research has consistently shown that there are indeed differences in ideological orientations between men and women. Studies have found that women tend to be more liberal and supportive of social equality, while men tend to be more conservative and supportive of traditional gender roles. These differences can be attributed to a variety of factors including socialization, biology, and cultural influences.

This statement suggests that even if people vote without fully understanding the issues at hand, their votes still hold public officials accountable for their actions. This implies that the act of voting itself is a form of accountability, as it forces officials to consider the opinions and needs of the general public. Therefore, the statement is true as it highlights the importance of citizen participation in the democratic process.

A census is the correct answer because it refers to the enumeration or counting of a population. It is a systematic process of collecting, analyzing, and publishing demographic, social, and economic data about all individuals in a specific geographic area. Unlike an opinion poll which gathers opinions on specific topics, a census aims to provide a comprehensive and accurate picture of the entire population. Demography is the study of population characteristics, while cartography is the science of map-making. Therefore, a census best fits the description of enumerating a population.

The Simpson-Mazzoli Act required employers to document the citizenship of all employees. This means that employers were obligated to verify the legal status of their workers and ensure that they were citizens or had legal authorization to work in the country. This measure aimed to address the issue of illegal immigration by holding employers accountable for hiring undocumented immigrants. By requiring documentation of citizenship, the act aimed to create a more controlled and regulated workforce.

Exit polls are surveys conducted with voters as they leave the polling stations. These polls provide an early indication of the voting patterns and trends before the official results are announced. Television networks use exit polls to project the outcomes of elections, especially in races that are not too close. By analyzing the data collected from these polls, networks can make accurate predictions and projections about the winners of various races before the polls have officially closed. Therefore, the statement that exit polls allow television networks to project all but very close races before the polls close is true.

The correct answer is the mass media. This is because the mass media, such as television, radio, and newspapers, have a significant influence on shaping the opinions, beliefs, and behaviors of individuals in society. They have the power to disseminate information, promote certain values and norms, and shape public opinion. As new parents navigate the challenges of raising a child, the mass media can provide them with information, advice, and support, making it an important source of guidance and influence for them.

Hispanics are considered the largest minority group in the United States today. This is due to the significant growth in the Hispanic population over the years. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanics accounted for about 18.5% of the total U.S. population in 2020, making them the largest minority group. This can be attributed to factors such as immigration, higher birth rates, and the overall increase in the Hispanic population.

The statement suggests that the Social Security system will be solvent and self-sufficient by the year 2040. However, the correct answer is false. This is because multiple studies and reports have indicated that the Social Security system will face financial challenges in the future due to factors such as an aging population and decreasing birth rates. Without necessary reforms, the system may not be able to sustain itself by 2040.

Asian Americans are considered the most highly skilled immigrant group in American history due to various reasons. Firstly, Asian immigrants have a strong emphasis on education and have a higher rate of college degrees compared to other immigrant groups. Additionally, they often come from countries with highly competitive education systems, which prepares them well for success in the American job market. Moreover, Asian immigrants have made significant contributions to various industries such as technology, medicine, and finance, further highlighting their high skill levels. Overall, their educational achievements, work ethic, and contributions to the American economy make Asian Americans the most highly skilled immigrant group in American history.

The given answer suggests that public opinion polls have indicated that the majority of Americans are more likely to recognize commercial slogans better than the names of political figures. This implies that Americans have a higher level of familiarity with commercial advertising than with political figures.

The correct answer is "Over the age of 65." This is because the question is asking about the fastest-growing age group in America, and the age group that is growing the fastest is the one composed of citizens who are over the age of 65. This means that the number of individuals in this age group is increasing at a faster rate compared to other age groups.

The accuracy of opinion polls relies on the technique of random sampling. Random sampling involves selecting a representative sample from the population being studied, ensuring that each individual has an equal chance of being included. This helps to minimize bias and ensure that the sample is truly representative of the population, increasing the accuracy of the poll results. The number of people interviewed, use of telephones or computers may be important factors in conducting the poll, but the key factor that determines accuracy is the use of random sampling technique.

The statement is true because Hispanics in the United States are indeed concentrated in cities. This is due to various factors such as economic opportunities, cultural ties, and the presence of established Hispanic communities in urban areas. Cities often offer more job prospects, social support networks, and cultural amenities that attract Hispanic individuals and families. Additionally, cities tend to have larger populations and more diverse communities, making them attractive destinations for immigrants and minority groups. As a result, the concentration of Hispanics in cities is a well-documented demographic trend in the United States.

The correct answer is Hispanics and Asians. The third great wave of immigration after World War II refers to the period between the 1960s and 1990s, during which there was a significant increase in immigration to the United States. This wave was characterized by a shift in the origins of immigrants, with a larger proportion coming from Latin American countries, particularly Mexico, and Asian countries such as China, India, and the Philippines. This wave of immigration had a profound impact on the demographic and cultural landscape of the United States.

Formal learning about politics is not necessarily more important than informal learning. While formal education can provide a structured and comprehensive understanding of political systems, informal learning through personal experiences, discussions, and observations can also contribute significantly to one's understanding of politics. Informal learning allows individuals to gain practical knowledge, diverse perspectives, and critical thinking skills that may not be covered in formal education. Therefore, both formal and informal learning have their own merits and are equally important in developing a well-rounded understanding of politics.

Demography refers to the scientific study of human populations. It involves analyzing various aspects of populations such as their size, structure, distribution, and changes over time. Demographers use statistical methods and data to understand population dynamics, including birth rates, death rates, migration patterns, and factors influencing population growth. By studying human populations, demography provides insights into social, economic, and political trends, which can inform policymaking and planning at various levels.

George Gallup is credited with perfecting the public opinion poll. He was an American statistician and the founder of the American Institute of Public Opinion, which later became the Gallup Organization. Gallup developed scientific sampling methods and pioneered the use of surveys to measure public opinion on various topics. His work revolutionized the field of polling and made it a valuable tool for understanding public sentiment and predicting election outcomes.

Random digit dialing is the most common method of polling today because it allows for a random selection of participants, ensuring a representative sample of the population. This method involves using a computer to generate random phone numbers and calling them to conduct surveys. It is considered more efficient and cost-effective compared to door-to-door interviews or mail surveys. Exit polls, on the other hand, are conducted specifically at polling locations to gather data on voter preferences and behavior.

Over the last 50 years, America's population growth has been concentrated in the West and South. This can be attributed to several factors such as favorable climate, economic opportunities, and a lower cost of living compared to other regions. The West and South have experienced significant development and urbanization, attracting people from other parts of the country. Additionally, these regions have seen a rise in job opportunities, particularly in industries like technology, energy, and healthcare, which has further fueled population growth.

Political participation refers to the active involvement of individuals in the political process with the intention of influencing the selection of political leaders and the policies they implement. It encompasses various activities such as voting, campaigning, and engaging in political discussions. This answer correctly identifies the main objective of political participation, which is to have a say in the decision-making process and shape the direction of governance. It also implies that political participation goes beyond conventional methods like voting and campaigning, acknowledging the potential impact of unconventional actions such as protests in influencing political outcomes.

The statement suggests that the census is a procedural requirement that creates very little controversy. However, the correct answer is False. This implies that the statement is incorrect, and the census does create controversy. The explanation could be that the census involves collecting data on various aspects of a population, such as demographics and socioeconomic factors. This data can be used for various purposes, including resource allocation, policy-making, and research. However, the census can be controversial due to concerns about privacy, accuracy, and potential misuse of the data. Additionally, issues such as undercounting certain populations or the inclusion of specific questions can also generate controversy.

The statement suggests that protest loses its effectiveness due to media unwillingness to cover unusual activities. However, this answer is incorrect. Protest can still be effective even if the media does not cover unusual activities. Protest can raise awareness, mobilize people, and put pressure on those in power. The media's coverage may amplify the impact, but it is not a determining factor in the effectiveness of protest.

The correct answer is "Level of public knowledge about politics is dismally low." This answer is supported by the statement that public opinion polls have shown that one thing is the level of public knowledge about politics is dismally low. This suggests that the American people lack adequate knowledge and understanding of political issues.

A liberal ideology favors a strong central government because it believes that the government should play an active role in addressing social and economic issues. Liberals believe that a strong central government can provide necessary regulations and social programs to ensure equality and protect individual rights. They argue that a strong government is needed to promote social justice, provide public goods, and regulate the economy to prevent exploitation and ensure fairness. This ideology stands in contrast to conservative ideologies that advocate for smaller government and a greater reliance on the private sector.

Voting is the correct answer because it is the most fundamental and essential form of political participation in a democratic society. It allows citizens to express their preferences, choose their representatives, and have a say in the decision-making process. While campaigning, protesting, and contacting officials are also forms of political activity, they are often done with the aim of influencing or promoting voting. Therefore, voting serves as the common denominator among these activities as it is the ultimate goal and culmination of political engagement.

California has been the biggest reapportionment winner in the most recent census because it has experienced a significant increase in population compared to other states. This population growth has resulted in California gaining more seats in the House of Representatives, which is determined by the census data. The increase in representation allows California to have a larger voice and influence in national politics and decision-making.

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Political ideology is not simply a matter of "gut reactions." It is a complex system of beliefs and values that shape an individual's political views and guide their decision-making process. Political ideology is often formed through a combination of personal experiences, education, cultural background, and rational analysis. It involves critical thinking, evaluation of evidence, and consideration of various perspectives. Therefore, it cannot be reduced to mere gut reactions.

The given statement is false because representativeness is always important in a survey, regardless of its size. A survey can only provide accurate and reliable results if the sample is representative of the population it aims to study. Even if a survey is large, if it does not include a diverse and representative sample, the results may be biased and not reflective of the entire population. Therefore, representativeness is crucial for ensuring the validity and generalizability of survey findings.

Conservatives typically prioritize limited government intervention and believe in individual responsibility and meritocracy. Therefore, they would not support affirmative action, as it involves policies aimed at providing preferential treatment to certain groups based on their race, gender, or other protected characteristics. Conservatives generally argue that such policies undermine the principles of equal opportunity and fairness, and instead advocate for a color-blind society where individuals are judged solely on their abilities and qualifications.

The statement that most of what Americans learn about politics is acquired from high school civics courses is FALSE. Political socialization is a lifelong process that involves various sources such as family, peers, media, and personal experiences. While high school civics courses may contribute to political learning, they are not the primary or sole source of political knowledge for Americans.

Public opinion polling is not exclusively an American phenomenon. It is conducted in many countries around the world to gauge the views and preferences of the public on various issues. Polling helps in understanding public sentiment, shaping policies, and making informed decisions. While the United States has a long history of conducting public opinion polls, it is not limited to America alone. Polling is a widely used tool in democratic societies globally.

Alexander Hamilton said, "Your people, sir, are a great beast."

The Literary Digest poll of 1936 wrongly predicted the results of the presidential election because they did not interview a random sample of voters. By not using a random sample, the poll results could have been biased and not representative of the overall population. This could have led to inaccurate predictions and an incorrect outcome.

The given statement that "Polling is a fad that should not be taken seriously" is not a criticism of public opinion polling. It suggests that polling is a temporary trend or fashion that should not be given importance or considered seriously. However, the other options provide criticisms of public opinion polling, such as politicians becoming followers instead of leaders, the potential weakening of democracy through distorted election processes, and the manipulation of results by altering question wording.

The correct answer is "more than whites." This suggests that African Americans and Hispanics, when income and education levels are equal, have a higher level of political participation compared to whites. This could be due to various factors such as a stronger sense of community engagement, higher levels of political awareness, or a greater motivation to address social and racial inequalities through political means.

Schools are a clear example of the government's intrusion into Americans' socialization because they are funded and regulated by the government. The curriculum, teaching methods, and overall environment in schools are influenced by government policies and standards. Through schools, the government has the opportunity to shape the values, beliefs, and knowledge of the younger generation, ultimately influencing their socialization process.

Reapportionment refers to the redistribution of seats in the House of Representatives based on changes in population. As population shifts occur, some states may gain or lose seats in the House, leading to a power shift among the states. This means that certain states may have more or less influence in the legislative process depending on their population changes. Therefore, the correct answer is that reapportionment can lead to power shifts among the states.

Most Jews tend to be more liberal than conservative.

The given statement that "The generation gap is a well-proven phenomenon" is false. The generation gap refers to the differences in beliefs, values, and attitudes between different generations, particularly between older and younger individuals. While there may be some differences between generations, it is not accurate to say that the generation gap is a well-proven phenomenon. Different individuals within the same generation can have varying political beliefs and attitudes, and it is not solely determined by their age or generation. Political socialization is influenced by various factors, including family, education, peers, and media.

Thomas Jefferson believed that a majority of people will exercise good sense. This suggests that Jefferson had a positive view of the general public's ability to make wise decisions and govern themselves. He believed that most individuals would use their judgment and act in the best interest of society, highlighting his faith in the collective wisdom and rationality of the people.

The updated analysis of the 1956 study "The American Voter" in 1988 revealed that there was only a slight increase of six percent in the number of ideologues compared to 1956. This suggests that there was not a significant shift in ideological identification among the population over the span of 32 years.

The correct answer is "Elicit no or little opinion." This means that when most people are asked questions about the scope of government, they do not have strong opinions or preferences. They may not feel strongly one way or another and may not have a clear stance on the issue. This suggests that these types of questions do not generate strong emotional responses or guide their ideological leanings.