The new edition of this highly respected text continues to go beyond a simple presentation of data to critically analyze the integral role public opinion plays in American democracy.

An in-depth analysis, American Public Opinion explores the origins of public opinion in political socialization, the impact of the media on public opinion, the relevance of public opinion to democratic values, political trust and social capital, and the role of public opinion for elections, political parties and interest groups. As in previous editions, the Seventh Edition examines the relationship between public opinion and policy.