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Power Of Society

By: Kate Gardens

Opinion can be substantiated in places where public discourse or information sources are available. It can be influenced regardless of where and what one is doing. If you add up all the individual views, perceptions, and attitudes using a systematic methodology, the emerging opinion that are common to and raised by all forms what we call the public opinion.

Flowing and throwing of views and opinions builds the breadth and depth of the discussion. At any rate, one’s level of opinion may change or becomes enriched by involving oneself in public discussion. During this kind of discourse, the exchange of argument and counterargument shapes public opinion.

Public opinion is a powerful basis, especially in crafting policies and making decisions for the common good. However, this can be driven through various stimuli motivated to protect one group’s stakes and interests.

Some interest groups connect with the emotions and minds of some people who have developed a bond and linked with each other because of their common opinion and sentiments. They join this group and sympathize with them as they consider them as an ally in advocating what they believed in. Attempt to set emotional attitudes of and provide misleading information to the public. This kind of interest groups capitalizes on the situation of the public for them to forward their own interests.

Of course, the media plays a vital role in the public opinion-shaping efforts. Since it is the major source of public information, the media is normally deemed a reliable and trustworthy source of information and opinion, as well. Strategic and creative programs can be implemented by the media to appeal the emotions of the public. By doing so, the public could be easily enticed to eat this, do this, and try this.

Another form that influences public opinion is what Malcolm Gladwell discussed in his book The Tipping Point – the “influentials. Expertise, charisma, and popularity are often key factors being used by “influentials” in shaping public beliefs and perceptions. They may not necessarily rub elbows with the public, but because of their characteristics -- mass appeal and X-factor -- they can easily do their job.

Influencing public opinion, however, must not be made if the output of the efforts will adversely affect the majority of the people, and more importantly its future and its nation. These shady efforts are usually done during elections or policy making through polls and publicity. Public are courted to believe that one is really good, even if in reality, is otherwise. Some uses the blinding power of money and hypnotizing charms of flowery words to get the support of the people. When these happen, people become divided and confusing information becomes amplified.

Article Source: http://www.articlewheel.com

Kate Gardens is a custom essay writing expert writer and UK customers support consultant at Customessays. Get more details for literature essay writing, philosophy essay writing and find more tips for political science essay writing.

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