Photo AI
Using the source, evaluate the view that opinion polls bring more advantages than disadvantages to elections and referendums - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 1
Using the source, evaluate the view that opinion polls bring more advantages than disadvantages to elections and referendums. In your response you must: - compare ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Using the source, evaluate the view that opinion polls bring more advantages than disadvantages to elections and referendums - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 1 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
compare and contrast different opinions in the source
Answer
The first part of Source 1 argues that opinion polls can significantly influence elections by shaping voter behavior and strategic party actions. For instance, it suggests that polls can deflate turnout if one party appears overwhelmingly favored, whereas the second part indicates that polls can play a positive role, as they may also provide a more accurate reflection of voter preferences. This dual perspective highlights the inherent tension in how opinion polls can both bolster and undermine democratic participation.
Polls may misrepresent the electorate's true preferences, which can lead political parties to alter their strategies in ways that may not align with voters' actual opinions. For example, the 2017 general election showcased how reliance on polls could mislead parties, such as the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, leading to significant electoral consequences.
Step 2
examine and evaluate the views in a balanced way
Answer
The evaluation of opinion polls must consider both their positive and negative implications. On one hand, polls can facilitate informed party strategies, allowing them to gauge public sentiment and adapt accordingly. This responsiveness can lead to a more dynamic political process.
On the other hand, the potential inaccuracies in polls can create a distorted political landscape, where parties might prioritize misleading indicators over genuine public opinion. The possibility of tactical voting arising from perceived voter intent can complicate election outcomes, leading to underrepresentation or misrepresentation of public views.
Step 3
analyse and evaluate only the information presented in the source
Answer
The source highlights two sides of the opinion poll debate. It acknowledges that, while polls can influence electoral outcomes and party strategies, they can also mislead both voters and political parties. For example, the source notes that in the 2017 elections, the polls were inaccurate, which had a direct impact on party performance. This suggests that while polls are intended to reflect voter sentiment, their inaccuracies can lead to detrimental effects on democratic engagement and voter turnout.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of opinion polls lies in their accuracy and the context in which they're interpreted. The source explicitly connects the consequences of misleading polls to the health of the political system, demonstrating that while they can offer advantages, these must be critically assessed against their potential to harm electoral integrity.