In this revision of their lauded Public Opinion: Democratic Ideals, Democratic Practice, Rosalee A. Clawson and Zoe M. Oxley continue to link the enduring normative questions of democratic theory to the best empirical research on public opinion. Exploring the tension between ideals and their practice, each chapter focuses on exemplary studies so that students gain a richer understanding of key findings and the research process as well as see methods applied in context.
Probably would have enjoyed it more if I had more of an interest in public opinion. Handy for the class that I took that assigned it - but not my favourite textbook. Somewhat long-winded in parts.
This book is a great place to start learning about public opinion. The authors raise questions about citizen’s place in democracy and how much influence public opinion should have on policymaking. Using real examples and research they present the reader with different perspectives and then go a step further to interpret the findings through the viewpoint of different democratic theorist perspectives. At the end of each chapter a list is provided of other works on the topic discussed and short descriptions so that if the subject interests you then you can get more in depth information. Overall great book!