The Influence Of The Network Public Opinion On The Public Decision-making Research

As China’s vast online population becomes more inter-connected, interactive and personalized, the network itself has begun to take on new functions, not originally intended or expected. In its early stages it served as just a "news distribution center." Now the network is transforming into a powerful mechanism that indirectly shapes the public’s point of view and ultimately builds mass online consensus, even if it doesn’t exist offline. However, this new network mechanism has not yet developed an effective apparatus that connects the public with the government that rules it. Ideally, political ideology (Socialism with Chinese characteristics), and the institutional framework of the country should be able to exert more control over the mechanism (the Internet) that is now shaping public decision making; it does not. This disconnect has created new challenges for ruling party and its ability to govern effectively.Through specific case studies this paper will first analyze the various processes through which this network mechanism shapes public opinion and the government’s reactions. This paper will then explore new ways in which the government can implement oversight strategies that enhance-rather than impede-political participation and discourse between the public and the ruling party; thus using this new network mechanism to improve public policy decisions and the public’s acceptance of them.