Having read the chapter, you should be able to do each of the following:

1. List the various political socialization agents and explain their importance.
2. Describe the different methods used to measure public opinion, and discuss why some are more accurate than others.
3. Describe the ideological classifications and group characteristics that help explain how Americans think politically.
4. Assess the degree to which American policymakers are responsive to public opinion. Comment on how this question relates to the issue of "representation" in American politics.
5. Describe how partisan thinking influences opinions about issues and candidates.