This text provides a comprehensive and concise introduction to the study of public opinion. A unifying theme explains public opinion as a communication between the constituency and the government. Public Opinion in the 21st Century also evaluates the quality of public beliefs and describes how Americans relate their opinions to political leaders, answering important questions such as, Whose voices are heard? To what effect? In keeping with the framework of the New Directions series, this text also includes a strong active learning focus. Each Part has at least one Interactive Learning Exercise such as simulations, data analysis activities, and group research assignments.