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Following the terrorist attacks of 11 Sept 2001, the British people offered an outpouring of support for the US. Opinion polls showed a high level of support among the British people for both George W. Bush & Tony Blair & a willingness to join with the Americans in eliminating terrorism, no matter the cost. Previous studies have shown that public support of war can lead to higher ratings for British Prime Ministers, while a study conducted in 1999 showed that 59% of the British public saw the US as being their most "reliable political ally." This attitude translated into immediate support for the US following the terrorist attacks. Opinion polls showed that people supported the use of British forces in the war against terrorism, supported the actions of George W. Bush, & were willing to pay increased taxes in order to finance the war. Additional polling in GB showed that 75% of the people believe that the terrorist attacks have changed the world forever. By 29 Nov 2001, surveys showed that approximately 70% continued to support the war in Afghanistan. 4 Figures, 6 References. K. A. Larsen

In this chapter, the author examines the different types of research methodology used in public opinion research, what is being measured in public opinion research -- behavior, knowledge, & views, & distinguishes between opinions, attitudes, & values. References. D. Miller

The duties of public opinion researchers & the utility of public opinion polls are discussed. Although researchers have provided practical definitions of "behavior" & "knowledge," adequate definitions of "opinion," "attitudes," & "values," as they pertain to public opinion research, have not been determined. Consequently, the three terms are differentiated by their respective resiliency toward change: opinions represent the superficial level of the public's consciousness & are easily changed; attitudes are more resilient toward modification; & values are firmly embedded & extremely resistant to change. It is contended that public opinion researchers merely provide systematically & objectively obtained subjective & objective information to the public. Also, public polls are designed to fulfill three distinct functions -- to inform, entertain, & educate the public by presenting the opinions of other individuals. Although controversies concerning the circulation of erroneous polls have convinced several European nations to ban the publication of public polls immediately preceding elections, it is concluded that such practices obstruct the dissemination of the sole objective & systematic form of information available to the public. 17 References. J. W. Parker