Impact of Public Opinion on Foreign Policy

How does the broad American public typically influence foreign policy?

• By directly setting policy agendas

• By funding foreign policy initiatives

• By voting on foreign policy decisions

• By constraining policymakers and shaping priorities

Why do subgroups like lobbies have a significant impact on foreign policy?

• They have more financial resources

• They control media narratives

• They are more knowledgeable and motivated

• They have direct access to the President

What is a major reason the media has less impact on public opinion than expected?

• Media outlets are not trusted

• People prefer entertainment over news

• News coverage is too complex

• People choose news sources that match their worldview

What example illustrates the limited role of media in shaping public opinion?

• The Cuban Missile Crisis

• The Vietnam War

• The Gulf War

• The 9/11 attacks

What challenge do policymakers face due to the dynamic nature of public opinion?

• Public opinion never changes

• Public opinion is irrelevant

• Public opinion is always supportive

• Public opinion can shift dramatically