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Molding Public Opinion on Select Manpower

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  • Harwood L. Childs

    (Princeton University)

Abstract

Molding public opinion on any subject involves several steps. First, it is essential to define clearly the objec tives of the campaign. Second, the public or publics to be influenced should be clearly identified. Third, careful surveys of the attitudes and opinions of the relevant publics regarding the campaign objectives and programs should be made. Fourth, the survey data should be carefully analyzed to find out why people hold the views they do regarding the program or lack information regarding it. This is probably the most important and most difficult step. Once the previous analysis has been made the next step is to create an organization for the express purpose of carrying out the campaign. Special attention must be given to both the strategies of argument and persuasion. Publicity really presents no great problem, once the previous steps have been taken. To solve the problem effectively a number of specific suggestions are given. It is inherent in the democratic process that those who believe in an idea or program should exercise their constitutional right to try and win support for it. This propaganda effort, how ever, should use to the full, methods and techniques which really help citizens to decide rationally. Emphasis should be placed on education, information, and enlightenment.

Suggested Citation

  • Harwood L. Childs, 1959. "Molding Public Opinion on Select Manpower," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 325(1), pages 50-57, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:anname:v:325:y:1959:i:1:p:50-57
    DOI: 10.1177/000271625932500109
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