In what ways does public opinion influence the formation of a democratic society?

Public opinion has so many influences on the formation of a democratic society. I think that the most important ways that public opinion can influence the formation of a democratic society are through:  monetary donations, social movements, media and voting.

People and corporations donate millions and millions of dollars to political campaigns each year in hopes that they will be able to influence public opinion. In turn, media outlets are fueled by advertisements who also hope to influence public opinion. President Obama, in the 2008 election raised "$742 million - contributed by 4 million contributors - exceeded the combined amounts raised by Bush and Kerry in 2004." (Draper 107) All of these political donations and media sources are produced for one reason: to get your vote. When they influence your vote they are influencing how are government is formed and functions. And while, "money does not guarantee victory in politics or happiness in life, but financial security sure helps." (Draper 109)

Voting is the epitome of what forms a democracy and when you cast your vote you have a direct role in our government. And what is a bit frightening is the fact that it would appear as though the American public is disintrested in voting. "One study found that the United States ranked fourth lowest in turnout among over thity-four democratic countries." (Draper 104)

I also think that social movements can have a huge public influence that contributes to the formation of  a democratic society. For example, in the past, the civil rights movement was a strong movement amongst the public that later influenced the way a person is defined by our government and their right to vote. Even today I think that an excellent example of social movements influencing a democratic society is the recent social movement in Egypt. In Egypt a social movement unilaterally formed a democratic society in a country that has been ruled fear and political injustice for years.  I really like the way that Gary Anderson of the Huffington Post described the impactful power of social movements. He said "people have no power as individuals. We can march, riot, or advocate for our pet issues, but unless people are organized, they have no power." (Anderson)

All of this makes me wonder, this critical question: do you believe that the United States should incorporate  a multiple party system? Do  you believe that our political system as it stands embodies a altruist democracy? 

Draper, Alan. The Politics of Power a Critical Introduction to American Government. New York: W.W. Norton & Company, Inc., 2011.

Anderson, Gary. "Egypt and Wisconsin: Democracy is Alive and Well." The Huffington Post. February 21, 2011, 12:21 PM. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gary-anderson/egypt-and-wisconsin-democ_b_825600.html.