210108 VO M7: Public Opinion and Political Behaviour (2026S)
Labels
Registration/Deregistration
Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).
Details
Language: English
Examination dates
- N Friday 26.06.2026 09:45 - 11:15 Hörsaal D Unicampus Hof 10 Hirnforschungzentrum Spitalgasse 4
- Wednesday 16.09.2026 11:30 - 13:00 Hörsaal 34 Hauptgebäude, Hochparterre, Stiege 6
Lecturers
Classes
Vorlesungstermine:
DO wtl von 19.03.2026 bis 18.06.2026 13.15-14.45 Ort: Hörsaal 42 Hauptgebäude, 2.Stock, Stiege 7
Information
Aims, contents and method of the course
What drives the political choices of millions, how does this shape our democracies, and how can we study it? This lecture examines the formation, measurement, and impact of public opinion in contemporary democracies, alongside the patterns and determinants of political behavior. Students will explore theoretical frameworks and empirical research on how citizens develop political attitudes, how these attitudes are measured, and how they translate into various forms of political participation. The course integrates classic studies with cutting-edge research on digital media, polarization, and global democratic challenges.
Assessment and permitted materials
The performance assessment takes the form of a written exam in English. Regular attendance of the lectures is strongly recommended. The questions of the final exam refer to the topics discussed in the lecture and the in-depth compulsory reading indicated for each lecture unit. The written exam consists of a mix of open questions which should be answered in a few sentences and multiple choice questions. This is not an open book exam: you are NOT allowed to use books, Powerpoint presentations, your own notes or any electronic devices during the exam.
Minimum requirements and assessment criteria
The points scale is as follows:
80-100 points: Very good (1)
70- 79: Good (2)
60-69 points: Satisfactory (3)
50-59 points: Sufficient (4)
0-49 points: Not sufficient (5)
80-100 points: Very good (1)
70- 79: Good (2)
60-69 points: Satisfactory (3)
50-59 points: Sufficient (4)
0-49 points: Not sufficient (5)
Examination topics
Contents of the lecture and compulsory readings. Compulsory readings will be made available alongside the lecture slides on Moodle in conjunction with each teaching unit.
Reading list
Berinsky, Adam J., ed. New directions in public opinion. New York, NY: Routledge, 2016 (book; open access via the university library).
A set of journal articles and book chapters, which can be accessed via Moodle.
A set of journal articles and book chapters, which can be accessed via Moodle.
Association in the course directory
Last modified: Th 11.06.2026 09:46