Sample bias and framing problems complicate the measurement of public opinion. Education and income, along with race and religion, are arguably the most important demographic characteristics that explain diverse political beliefs. Socialization describes the influence of people and cues in our immediate environment on our beliefs and preferences. Family, friends, and coworkers are important agents of socialization. Interest Groups and the Logic of Collective Action.
Information is the most important political resource of interest groups.
Corporate interest groups have advantages over member interest groups in political negotiations. Trade associations, unions and professional associations dominate politics because political activity is inexpensive for organizations that organized for economic purposes . Political Parties and Voter Turnout. In practice, political parties in the United States are highly decentralized. National committees organize the national nominating conventions, conduct public opinion research, advise prospective candidates, and raise money throughout the year.