The disadvantages of Public Opinion

DISADVANTAGES OF PUBLIC OPINION POLLS

Definition of opinion polls

An opinion poll involves the use of a representative number of people and asking them specific questions on particular issues. Their responses are then scientifically analyzed to arrive at what percentage of people is saying what on a particular issue.

DISADVANTAGES

Can be dangerous in an election year

The election years, especially, opinion polls are conducted by pollsters and findings published for consumption. The danger here is that if the final results fail to agree with the results of the polls, it may lead to confusion and probable accusations of electoral fraud.

Results not always accurate

Public opinion polls are not exact. That is why after pollsters have conducted their polls, they leave a margin of error. This is a standard practice all over the world, so the existence of a margin of error is ample proof that the results of the polls are no exactitude.

Some respondent do not provide truthful answers

When people have motion cameras pointed at them, they become jittery and just say anything that comes into their mind. The responses of such people can therefore not be entirely accurate.

Disincentive to voting

In Ghana, for example, Mr. Ben Ephson, a renowned pollster has, through his election polls over the years, predicted very close to accurate the results elections. The danger is that where such polls results are released, voter apathy can set in for voters whose parties are predicted to lose the coming election.

Empty Campaign Coffers

Where opinion poll results show that a party, for instance, shall lose an election, it is very difficult to convince contributors to the political campaign war chest. This can affect the fortunes of the party during the elections.

Bandwagon effect

A bandwagon effect refers to the concept where people think in a certain direction because most people are thinking in that direction. In election years especially, some people look at how the majority of people are voting and decide to vote in that direction too.

SAMPLE QUESTION(S)

1. a. What is an opinion poll? [2 marks]

    b. Highlight five disadvantages of opinion polls. [10 marks]

2. Examine six disadvantages of opinion polls [12 marks] 

3. Discuss three advantages and three disadvantages of opinion polls. [12 marks]

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