Congruence between public opinion and congressional actions on energy issues, 1973-1974

Journal Article · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1983 · Energy Syst. Policy; (United States)

OSTI ID:5490696

Goss, C ^[1]; Kamieniecki, S

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1. California State College, San Bernardino

This paper analyzes the correspondence between public opinion on energy issues during and immediately after the oil embargo and the energy policies acted on by Congress. The purpose of the study is to identify some of the conditions under which congruence between public opinion and public policy is likely to occur. Representatives were found to act contrary to public preferences only when they believed they were more knowledgeable than the public. In general, representatives' actions were congruent with public opinion on issues where public feeling was widespread and intense, when there was a clear majority preference, and when an interactive process had taken place involving public response to a governmental initiative. When the public was divided, representatives tended to divide, or postponed resolution of the issue. This study suggests a number of other possible conditions affecting congruence related to crisis situations, new problems, and the direction of public opinion. 20 references, 4 tables.

• OSTI ID: 5490696
• Journal Information: Energy Syst. Policy; (United States), Journal Name: Energy Syst. Policy; (United States) Vol. 7:2; ISSN ESYPB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
293000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
DECISION MAKING
ENERGY POLICY
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
LEGISLATION
POLITICAL ASPECTS
PUBLIC OPINION
PUBLIC POLICY