Date of Award
12-2009
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Political Science
First Advisor
Dr. Emily Hauptmann
Second Advisor
Dr. Jacinda Swanson
Third Advisor
Dr. J. Kevin Corder
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Campus Only
Abstract
Political surveys and their results consume a large part of the political discourse. Political officials at many different levels of government have come to rely on them as representing their constituents' preferences on current issues. However, research indicates surveys may have shortcomings which can affect valued democratic qualities (equality, for one). This brings into question their ability to accurately represent the public view. Many United States citizens do not feel that they can affect government actions. Voting is the citizen's domain, often after the candidates have been chosen.
Political scientists have recognized and bemoaned the voter ignorance and apathy displayed prominently in survey research, but have for the most part ignored the causes. While they admit the shortcomings of surveys, they have not evaluated their use by politicians or attempted to measure surveys' effects relative to conceptions of democratic ideals within the broader society.
This thesis does not seek to establish our dependence on surveys as the origin of voter apathy; there are many contributing factors to political culture. It is the intention of this thesis to examine the shortcomings of surveys, how they are used, and the ways in which they result in undemocratic effects. A proposed plan for change is then introduced with the hope that it can remedy some of these ills.
Recommended Citation
Kagan, Nancy H., "An Evaluation of Political Surveys and Their Consequences for Democracy" (2009). Masters Theses. 286.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/286