Final answer:
According to many political scientists, most voters make decisions based on their political party identification or political ideology. Social groups and socialization also influence voters' opinions. Voters use heuristics and shortcuts to make decisions efficiently.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to many political scientists, most voters primarily make decisions based on their political party identification or political ideology. Many voters join a party that aligns with their beliefs and vote for candidates from that party. This is considered a rational behavior as it allows voters to make decisions without having to extensively research every candidate and issue.
Additionally, social groups and socialization play a significant role in shaping voters' opinions. The people we spend time with, such as friends, family, and coworkers, influence how we think about political issues. This process is known as socialization.
Overall, voters tend to use heuristics, such as party identification and social group influence, to make decisions quickly and efficiently in complex political environments.