Overview: In modern politics, public opinion is a constant reminder for politici
Overview: In modern politics, public opinion is a constant reminder for politicians and citizens. For the following assignment, you must select an issue of interest and provide analysis of recent public opinion trends. You have complete control over the topic you select, but make sure to check trusted public opinion sites such as Pew Research Center and Gallup to see whether there is enough information for your topic. Once writing the paper you must analyze how public opinion may have shifted, attitudes that different groups have for the topic, and then provide some perspective on what action has been taken and whether public opinion can explain the actions taken. The assignment and have at least eight (8) cited sources.
Research Steps:
1. Select your issue. The first step to any research paper is determining what issue you would like to analyze. There are numerous issues that are polled every day by various public opinion firms so there is no shortage of information available for any topic. Issues can range from immigration to healthcare to the economy to foreign policy No topic is out of reach. Feel free to consult me if you are struggling to determine the best topic for you.
2. Find public opinion. There are numerous places to go to get quality public opinion data for free. Pew Research Center, Gallup Polling, and Real Clear Politics are probably three of the most accessible and reputable organizations. Search their websites for current as well as past public opinion results on your topic.
3. Start writing. This is a multi-part paper. The first part of the paper should focus on the topic you have selected and why it is an important topic to analyze. That section should be no more than a paragraph. The second section is where you will provide all of the data you have collected as well as providing quality analysis of what the data means. This should include looking at how public opinion has shifted over time, how different groups of citizens feel about the topic, and more. The third, and final, section of the paper should focus on what actions have been taken as a result of public opinion. Have politicians acted upon the wishes of the people or are they being ignored? Does one political party appear more responsive than another? Why or why not? In this final section you can also discuss whether you were surprised by the public opinion results and what it tells you about the country.
4. Write properly. This is a more formal paper than the first exercise, so make sure to be structured and formal in your writing style. Use proper MLA citations. If you are unfamiliar with MLA citations, use the Purdue Online Writing Lab. It’s a tremendous resource and will help answer all of your questions. If you still have linger questions or concerns, feel free to contact me at any time.
