| Abstract: | ABSTRACT. Elected officials, technical specialists and the public are talking more about “citizen input” into the decision process, and how the people view a given issue or kind of public service. However, problem definition and valid instruments are needed before we can meaningfully predict or understand public attitude relating to a particular issue or concept. The fluoridation of community water supplies was chosen for the present methodological demonstration. This issue achieves a high level of controversy among many public segments [Crain, Katz and Rosenthal, 1969; Davis, 1959; McNeal, 1957]. By 1950, there was widespread endorsement for a national program relating to controlled water fluoridation. Yet, public acceptance of this particular technological advance has not been very high. |
