Public Opinion: Public opinion refers to the collective views and preferences held by a population regarding specific matters. It can be measured through surveys or polls and helps gauge general sentiment towards politicians or policies.
Cognitive Dissonance: Cognitive dissonance occurs when individuals hold conflicting beliefs or attitudes. In the context of voting, it might arise when voters encounter information that contradicts their existing perception of a candidate or party.
Political Ideology: Political ideology refers to a set of beliefs and values that shape an individual's views on social, economic, and political issues. Different ideologies (such as liberalism or conservatism) influence how people perceive candidates and their policies.