Public opinion and political decisions. notes on the margins of the russian spring

Abstract

The article considers the increasing role of the public opinion surveys in the decision-making process and political programs` development. The reconnection of Crimea and Sevastopol case study is analyzed using the data of the mega poll conducted by VCIOM and Public Opinion Foundation as well as the Russian president’s comments concerning the question of Crimea. The study is based on the retrospective method: the author provides examples of how the survey data has influenced the decision-making process since 1980s. According to the author, ignoring the survey data may lead to negative consequences for politicians and the country in general. The author concludes that refusal to take into account stereotypes, public moods and expectations may come at a high cost for political elite. On the contrary, keeping in mind public moods would gain public support. An attempt is also made to describe different types of conflicts at the junction of public opinion and politics.