Abstract

This chapter examines a key dimension of public attitudes – political knowledge – its measurement and impact on policy preferences and turnout. Specific attention is given to the role of misinformation – that is, confidently held, but factually incorrect beliefs – and whether misinformation can be corrected. In so doing it casts a wide net over a volume of literature on knowledge and political participation, with an emphasis on the former. Throughout the chapter, attention is given to methodology and measurement, showing how experimental political science in particular, has reshaped the way we approach the study of political knowledge.