Final answer:
Public opinion analysts agree that public knowledge about politics is not comprehensive but decisive enough for rational voter behavior. Public opinion is influenced by economic and social events and interpreted by engaged opinion leaders.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public opinion analysts generally agree that the level of public knowledge about politics is not comprehensive, suggesting that while individuals may not be fully informed on all political matters, their collective opinions as voters do seem to reflect rational decision-making based on available information, political ideology, and party membership. This perspective is supported by political studies such as the American Voter series, which explores voting behavior and accountability. Moreover, the collective public opinion of a country is subject to change over decades, often influenced by the national mood and major economic and social events.
The role of opinion leaders, including politicians, pollsters, and journalists, is to shape and interpret public opinion. As noted by the likes of Walter Lippmann, average citizens often rely on these opinion leaders for information rather than directly experiencing political events themselves. This signifies an interaction between the public's opinion and the information provided by those who are more engaged and knowledgeable in political affairs, creating a dynamic where analysts gauge public sentiments whilst acknowledging information limitations among the general populace.