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August 30, 2010
“Spiral of Silence”
Most people are able to estimate (although not always correctly) what majority opinion is on most issues,
or whether a particular opinion on an issue is gaining or losing ground. Those who see their own views as becoming more widely accepted tend to voice these views in public, and with increasing confidence. Those whose opinions seem to be losing ground are reluctant to speak out. The silence of the "losers" in turn, increases the confidence of the other side. Finally, only a hard core is willing to defend the minority opinion in public. -- Same-Sex Marriage and Public Opinion: Spirals, Frames, and the Seinfeld Effect « Public Discourse
Posted by Vanderleun at August 30, 2010 8:31 AM. This is an entry on the sideblog of American Digest: Check it out.
Your Say
This is why it is so important for all conservatives to spend enough time to become well-versed on the issues of the day and then go on the attack against liberals in public. Don't let one hippy mention even the safest lib opinion without getting in their face and proving how wrong they are. Conservatives often just hear the hippy, think "that's stupid" to them self and then leave. To quote a 21st century philosopher, "get in their face and punch back twice as hard."
Posted by: Scott M at August 31, 2010 3:43 AM