How is public opinion best defined?

Public opinion is best defined as the views of society on specific topics because it encompasses the attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments held by the general population regarding various issues, policies, or events. This definition reflects a broader spectrum of voices, capturing the diverse perspectives of individuals within a community or society as a whole.

Considering public opinion helps in understanding how people feel about essential matters, which can influence decision-making processes, policy formulation, and social dynamics. It can change and evolve over time based on cultural, social, and political factors.

The other options limit the scope of public opinion. Focusing only on the collective views of journalists, the beliefs of famous public figures, or the opinions of political leaders does not accurately represent the wide-ranging perspectives that contribute to public opinion. Instead, these narrower views may be seen as subsets or influences on public opinion rather than a comprehensive definition.