American Public Opinion and Strategic Planning: Considerations and Case Studies.
Abstract
This thesis explores the impact and importance of public opinion in the American strategic/political planning process. It begins with a discussion of the special role of public opinion in the United STates, how it has changed, and how it effects policymakers. After a general consideration of the uniqueness of that relationship, the role of public opinion in determining the national interest is examined. Two case studies are then presented. The first deals with how a knowledge of existing public opinion on such general areas as support for defense spending could be used by the Executive branch to obtain support for a particular strategic policy, specifically; arms sales to foreign countries. The second case deals with how a complex strategy related to nuclear deterrence (deployment of the MX missile) was apparently adjusted to gain public opinion support. The thesis concludes with a consideration of the implications of the case study findings. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADB083222
Entities
People
- R. L. Williams
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School