Media Outlets

Media outlets and other agencies frequently conduct opinion polls to try to capture information about the public’s thoughts on contemporary events, controversies, or political candidates. Poll data are faster and easier to collect than survey data are, because they do not require adherence to scientific sampling methods and questionnaire design. Agencies conducting polls often do not have the time or resources to engage in full-scale survey projects. Debate the merits of poll data from a policy standpoint. Is having low-quality information better than having none at all? Or is there no place in public discussions for data that fall short of scientific standards? Explain your answer.