Political opinions, then, appear to be based more generally on broad schemas rather than specific knowledge about current affairs. Schemas are extremely important in structuring attitudes such as party identification, which has historically been a strong determinant of one's vote. The fact that Americans often seem uninformed has led some to think the public will be highly malleable and open to change. In fact, some attitudes are very resilient. This resiliency depends on the intensity, latency, and saliency of the issue involved.
Government responds to public opinion if it is organized and communicated.
There are a number of troubling signs that the mass public is turning away from communicating with policy makers. Public dissatisfaction with the democratic process, racial polarization, and pessimism concerning the economy all contribute to a breaking down of the connection between the governors and the governed. However, the polling enterprise has helped advance American society toward the democratic ideal. Polls have allowed the public to articulate their demands and desires and have provided an avenue for the public to participate in the political debate. Public opinion now largely sets the agenda of political discourse.