<P> Another key theory about how people form their opinions on foreign policy issues is Hurwitz and Peffley's hierarchical attitudes model . They argue that it is structured, with core values providing the basis for postures which further influence the ultimate issue position . </P> <P> Public opinion about foreign policy is measured in the same way that all public opinion is measured . Through polls and surveys, respondents are asked about their issue positions . Conclusions are drawn by researchers by applying the scientific method . </P> <P> According to Robert Shapiro, public opinion and policy - making are fundamental to a democracy, which is linked to electoral accountability, meaning that the leader who was elected "will not deviate far from voters' opinion". A problem that arises when analyzing the data collected by researchers is how these issues that are "important" are selected when collecting the data about public opinion . It is hard to determine if there has been underdevelopment of certain issues . Another concern is how elites influence public opinion by persuasion and rhetoric, ultimately shaping policy - making . These two variables are ambiguous by nature and are hard to get to any conclusions, in most cases beyond the limits of research . Other variables to look at when analyzing the opinion - policy effect are the size of the majority public, election cycle time, degree of electoral competition, and the type of issue . For example, domestic affairs public opinion will be of greater importance than that of foreign affairs, because of the complexity . </P> <P> Since Presidents have the ability to influence their political agenda, it is easier for them to respond to public opinion . Also, since they are not an institution (like Congress) they can "shift the standards by which the public evaluates their performance in office--away from policy concerns and towards more symbolic activities, image, and personality ." </P>

The press has the greatest impact on public opinion regarding