Self-interest and public opinion toward smoking restrictions and cigarette taxes

In: Public opinion quarterly: journal of the American Association for Public Opinion Research, Band 53, Heft Spring 89

Abstract

Argues that self-interest plays a decisive role in shaping attitudes toward smoking restrictions and cigarette taxes. Data from 2 random samples indicate that nonsmokers are far more enthusiastic about tightening smoking restrictions and increasing cigarette taxes than smokers, particularly heavy smokers. Discusses several explanations for the apparent discrepancy between these results and the pattern of null findings characteristic of the self-interest literature. (Abstract amended)