Psychology
Public Opinion Formation and the Influence of Elite Cues
Quick fact
Studies show that when political elites take a position, their followers’ opinions often align with that cue within days, even on obscure policy details—demonstrating how powerfully elite cues can steer public opinion.
Why this is interesting
You might think that your political opinions are your own—reasoned conclusions from careful thought. But what if many of them are actually borrowed from trusted leaders without you even noticing?