The Gallup organization called me on the phone the other night and asked me for my opinions on the economy, crime and security and the upcoming elections. It was that first time I've ever been asked to participate in a national political poll. I had some free time, so I agreed to participate. It was a surreal experience for a thinking man.
The questions contained many false dichotomies and were formed in such a way that thoughtful replies weren't needed at all. For example. One question was; do you approve or disapprove of the job that President Bush is doing? Well I'm down on enough of the administration activities that I would have to say I slightly disapprove of the job he is doing right now. But there was no way to nuance my answer, so I answered disapprove. Had I been given a five point scale such as; strongly disapprove, slightly disapprove, neutral, slightly approve or strongly approve, I might have answered neutral or slightly disapprove, based on my hormone cycle at the moment.
To put it simply, the poll sucked. And anyone who attempts to govern based on polling results such as these is retarded and unfit to hold public office. Sorry, these poll results can only be used as pablum for the masses.