Theories of public opinion explore how individuals form their beliefs and attitudes about political and social issues. One key theory is the Spiral of Silence, which suggests that people may withhold their opinions if they believe they are in the minority, leading to a distorted perception of public sentiment. This can create a feedback loop where dominant views become even more pronounced. Another important theory is the Agenda-Setting Theory, which posits that the media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion by highlighting specific issues. By focusing on certain topics, the media influences what people consider important, ultimately guiding public discourse and opinion formation.