Final answer:
Public policy addresses issues of significant concern to the general public, encompassing a broad segment of society and is influenced by the collective activities and opinions of interest groups, political parties, the media, and individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
Public policy deals with issues of concern for a sizable segment within society that extends beyond individual interests. The correct answer is C. The general public. This focuses on areas that impact society as a whole versus specific benefits for private corporations, individual government officials, or international organizations. Public policy could encompass a range of topics from health care to environmental regulations, and reflects the collective interests of the populace.
Interest groups, political parties, the media, and individuals all play significant roles in shaping public policy. They do this by lobbying, educating, and mobilizing supporters to affect decisions that align with their interests or the public's interests. Public policy is not restricted to private interests; it spans broader societal concerns and manages the balance between individual rights and the collective good.
Governmental decisions on public policy are influenced by public opinion, represented by opinion polls and the activities of various interest groups, with the ultimate aim being to serve the public's immediate and long-term needs.