Polling UnPacked: The History, Uses and Abuses of Political Opinion Polls

Opinion polls dominate media coverage of politics, but how do they work? Polling UnPacked explains the history, techniques, and controversies of polling, from nineteenth-century rudimentary polls to the latest techniques and controversies. It is written by a former political pollster and the creator of Britain's foremost polling-intention database and will change the way you see political coverage forever.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 11 April 2022
Publisher: Reaktion Books

Opinion polls play a significant role in media coverage of politics, particularly during elections. However, understanding the intricacies of polling and distinguishing between reliable and unreliable data can be challenging. In light of recent polling disasters, it is important to assess whether we can trust these surveys.

Polling UnPacked, written by a former political pollster and the creator of Britain's foremost polling-intention database, aims to provide a comprehensive and accessible guide to the world of polling. The book spans from the early nineteenth-century rudimentary polls to the twentieth-century attempts by politicians to ban polling and the latest techniques and controversies of recent years.

In equal parts enlightening and entertaining, Polling UnPacked does not require prior knowledge of polling or statistics to understand. It offers a clear and concise explanation of how polling works, the various methods used, and the challenges involved in conducting accurate surveys. The book also delves into the historical context of polling, including its use in political campaigns, military invasions, and social movements.

One of the key strengths of Polling UnPacked is its ability to demystify the often complex and jargon-filled world of polling. The author breaks down polling concepts into easily understandable terms, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate their points. This makes the book accessible to a wide range of readers, including those who may be interested in politics but may not have a background in statistics or polling.

Despite its accessibility, Polling UnPacked is not without its flaws. The book occasionally relies on anecdotal evidence and personal experiences rather than rigorous statistical analysis. Additionally, some readers may find the tone of the book to be somewhat subjective, as the author's personal beliefs and experiences may influence their interpretation of polling data.

Nevertheless, Polling UnPacked is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the role of opinion polls in politics. The book provides a comprehensive and balanced perspective on polling, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. It will be of interest to political analysts, journalists, students, and the general public alike.

In conclusion, Opinion polls dominate media coverage of politics, especially elections. However, understanding the intricacies of polling and distinguishing between reliable and unreliable data can be challenging. Polling UnPacked, written by a former political pollster and the creator of Britain's foremost polling-intention database, offers a comprehensive and accessible guide to the world of polling. The book provides a clear and concise explanation of how polling works, the various methods used, and the challenges involved in conducting accurate surveys. While it may have some flaws, it is a valuable resource for anyone interested in understanding the role of opinion polls in politics.

Weight: 568g
Dimension: 150 x 225 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789145670