Why are we interested in American public opinion about the Middle East situation? There is, of course, the general objective of better understanding our society and the attitudes of its people, which — as a social scientist — I heartily endorse. But there are also practical implications, given the connection of the U.S. with the Middle East over the years — an involvement which ultimately can reflect underlying views of the American people who elect and send policymakers to Washington. CONTINUED
Frank Newport, Gallup