The use of polls to gather public opinions has increased recently ( Matthews , 2014) . In the U.S, an opinion poll on genetic research was conducted in 2002 and two major results emerged. Regarding scientific research on human cloning, about 77% of the respondents were in opposition while only 17% were in favour. On the other hand, 50% agreed that the government should fund stem cell research while 35% of the respondents opposed. Lastly, 47% agreed that conducting research towards medical cures is more important than destroying human embryos ( Pew Research Center for the People and the Press & Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life, 2002). These responses are indicators of the importance that the citizens have placed on human life.
Regarding stem cell research, a big proportion of the population showed support. However, proper distribution of sample collection and education on the same issue would have significantly changed the percentage. This is because about 10% of the respondents lacked an answer to the question. Before administering a poll, it is clear that people need to be educated about its importance. It is evident that we are affected by deadly diseases and to save lives; the concerned institutions should find cures. Therefore, involving the society and guiding the whole process is a role that the government should take (Bonnicksen, 2009).
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Based on this study, polling gives a researcher a vivid image of the status of the chosen area of focus. Since only a sample is used in polling, a researcher incurs minimal expenses. Further, polling is carried out by independent companies so as to avoid bias and to give accurate feedback. However, when a company is compromised, then chances of providing misleading information increase and this is a big blow to the practice as a whole.
Conclusion
Opinion polls play a critical role in shaping various government policies. This is because polls give citizens the power to share their views on matters affecting them. However, for objective and reliable results, the polling entities should first inform the targeted respondents regarding the issue at hand before seeking their contributions. Likewise, for the reliability of results, all polling companies must be entirely independent and bias-proof.
References
Bonnicksen, A. (2009). Chimeras, hybrids, and interspecies research - Politics and policymaking . Washington, D.C: Georgetown University Press.
Matthews, M. (2014). International Handbook of Research in History, Philosophy, and Science Teaching . Springer Netherlands .
Pew Research Center for the People and the Press & Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life (2002). Cloning opposed, stem cell research narrowly supported - Public makes distinctions on genetic research . News Release.
