How can public opinion be defined?

Public opinion can be defined as the sum of individual attitudes about an issue or question. This definition emphasizes the fact that public opinion is not just a singular view or an idea held by a few, but rather a compilation of diverse opinions and sentiments expressed by individuals within society. Each person's perspective contributes to the overall understanding of what the public thinks about particular issues, policies, or governmental actions.

This definition captures the essence of a democracy where the views of the populace are essential for shaping public policy and government decisions. In democracies, understanding public opinion is crucial because it provides insight into what the citizens prioritize, value, and react to in governance. The collective nature of public opinion also means it can vary widely across different demographics, regions, and over time, reflecting changes in attitudes and beliefs as societal values evolve.

The other choices do not comprehensively encapsulate the concept of public opinion. For instance, defining it as the collective perspectives of political officials limits the view to a select group rather than the broader society. A narrow view of political beliefs would not accurately represent the dynamic and diverse nature of public sentiment. Lastly, focusing solely on the majority viewpoint on government actions disregards the importance of minority opinions and the complexity of public views that often include a range of