Deliberative polls

Deliberative polls are an instrument whose aim is to provide a more accurate, scientific representation of public opinion based on information and careful consideration rather than on “top of the head” opinions. By exposing random samples of population to balanced information and opposing arguments, people are encouraged to challenge their embedded opinions by discussing with heterogeneous interlocutors having divergent points of view. The resulting change in opinion represents the conclusions the public would reach, if the people had the opportunity to become more informed and involved by the issues.