The Rationality of Rhode Island Voters in 2004
Were Rhode Islanders more likely to be guided by their passions and values when casting their vote? Or were their choices primarily influenced by reason and rationality?
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Moral Assessment: |
vs. |
Economic Self-Interest: |
In the fall of 2005, a survey was conducted by Dr. James Carlson's Political Attitudes and Public Opinion class at Providence College. A list of randomly generated numbers were obtained in order to provide a random sampling of Rhode Island residents. There were a total of 348 respondents. A statement regarding the rationality of voters was incorporated into the survey and the respondents were asked to either "agree" or "disagree" with the following statement:
"A candidate's views on moral issues are more important than his or her views on economic policies."