Strength in Numbers

Strength in NumbersDiscover the enlightening narrative in 'Strength in Numbers' by G. Elliott Morris, a pivotal book exploring the role of public opinion polling in enhancing democracy. This compelling read delves into the evolution of polling, from its ancient origins to todays sophisticated scientific methods. Morris emphasizes that polling is not merely about predicting electoral outcomes, but rather serves as a crucial channel for citizens to communicate their needs

Discover the enlightening narrative in 'Strength in Numbers' by G. Elliott Morris, a pivotal book exploring the role of public opinion polling in enhancing democracy. This compelling read delves into the evolution of polling, from its ancient origins to today’s sophisticated scientific methods. Morris emphasizes that polling is not merely about predicting electoral outcomes, but rather serves as a crucial channel for citizens to communicate their needs directly to elected officials. In a climate where polls often face skepticism, this book aims to redefine their value and importance in our democratic process.

Through meticulous research, 'Strength in Numbers' provides insights into how modern technology, big data, and polling aggregation have transformed the landscape of political polling. The author candidly discusses the challenges facing the polling industry and offers a vision for its future where data can empower voters rather than mislead them. This essential guide addresses misconceptions about the polling process, equipping readers with the knowledge to critically engage with public opinion data.

Whether you're a voter, a student of politics, or simply curious about how polls influence decision-making, 'Strength in Numbers' is a necessary addition to your bookshelf. Enhance your understanding of democracy through this informative and thought-provoking book.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW, ISBN: 9781324052074, Year: 2023, Publisher: W W Norton & Company.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781324052074
Year: 2023
Publisher: W W Norton & Company


Description:


Public opinion polling is the ultimate democratic process; it gives every person an equal voice in letting elected leaders know what they need and want. But in the eyes of the public, polls today are tarnished. Recent election forecasts have routinely missed the mark and media coverage of polls has focused solely on their ability to predict winners and losers. Polls deserve better.

In Strength in Numbers, data journalist G. Elliott Morris argues that the larger purpose of political polls is to improve democracy, not just predict elections. Whether used by interest groups, the press, or politicians, polling serves as a pipeline from the governed to the government, giving citizens influence they would otherwise lack. No one who believes in democracy can afford to give up on polls; they should commit, instead, to understanding them better.

In a vibrant history of polling, Morris takes readers from the first semblance of data-gathering in the ancient world through to the development of modern-day scientific polling. He explains how the internet and "big data" have solved many challenges in polling-and created others. He covers the rise of polling aggregation and methods of election forecasting, reveals how data can be distorted and misrepresented, and demystifies the real uncertainty of polling. Candidly acknowledging where polls have gone wrong in the past, Morris charts a path for the industry's future where it can truly work for the people.

Persuasively argued and deeply researched, Strength in Numbers is an essential guide to understanding and embracing one of the most important and overlooked d