ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 makes the case for adopting a constructivist approach to understanding the relationship between British public opinion and foreign policy. It sets out ontological, epistemological and methodological foundations for the empirical investigations reported through the remainder of the book. It highlights how ‘public opinion’ exists to the extent a society, or a group within a society such as a political elite, thinks that it exists. Public opinion, from this perspective, is best described as a ‘social fact’ constituted through public debate. This chapter consequently suggests a ‘holistic’ empirical approach combining survey results with quantitative and qualitative analysis of press commentary, parliamentary debate and street protests to build up an interpretive picture of public attitudes, while using contemporary documents and public statements alongside later reflections to triangulate policymakers’ views. In the case of Britain’s involvement in the invasion of Iraq, it also shows how the range of material produced by repeated public inquiries and continued public and media interest can support academic research.
