After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

• 10.1 Define public opinion.
• 10.2 Describe the ways that public opinion can be measured.
• 10.3 Explain six elements that contribute to the forming of opinion.
• 10.4 Discuss to what extent public opinion is meaningful.
• 10.5 Summarize the role of consensus in politics and policy issues.
• 10.6 Relate the role that group differences such as gender and race can have on public opinion.
• 10.7 Discuss the influences and limitations of public opinion in American politics.