As we continue to discuss public opinion in 2301 we ought to begin touching on how opinion, or at least measures of opinion, can be impacted by the words pollsters choose to use when they ask questions. Several previous posts have touched on this already, here's the latest proof that words matter: more people support the ability for "gay men and lesbians" to serve in the military than for "homosexuals" to do so.
- Poll results from CBS News.
- Commentary from the Atlantic.
Pollsters call these framing effects and have noticed them for decades. These have a great influence on how politicians present arguments to the public.
