Meaning: The quote by Jim Bolger, a former Prime Minister of New Zealand, reflects his criticism of what he perceives as manipulative polling techniques. Bolger's statement points to the practice of targeting answers to elicit instant responses, which he views as a form of manipulation. His disapproval suggests a concern about the integrity of the polling process and the impact of such tactics on public opinion and decision-making.

Polling, as a method of gathering data and insights from a specific group of people, plays a significant role in shaping public opinion and informing political, social, and commercial decisions. However, the manner in which polls are conducted and the framing of questions can influence the outcomes and potentially skew the results. Bolger's remark underscores the ethical considerations that surround polling practices and the potential implications for democratic processes and public discourse.

In the context of polling, targeting answers refers to tailoring questions in a way that prompts or manipulates respondents into providing specific responses. This could involve using leading or biased language, presenting limited options, or framing questions in a manner that influences the participant's perception or recall. The goal of such targeted questioning is to elicit instant responses that align with a particular agenda or narrative, rather than allowing for thoughtful and unbiased input.

Bolger's characterization of this practice as "manipulative" suggests a deep-seated concern about the authenticity and accuracy of polling data. By highlighting the instantaneous nature of the responses sought, he underscores the potential for impulsive or reflexive answers that may not fully reflect the nuanced perspectives of the respondents. This raises questions about the validity and reliability of polling results obtained through such methods.

The former Prime Minister's dismissal of this approach as a "worm" reflects his strong disapproval and contempt for the perceived underhanded tactics employed in targeted polling. The use of the term "worm" conveys a sense of disdain and derogation, implying that such practices are not only manipulative but also contemptible and devoid of integrity. Bolger's unequivocal rejection of this polling strategy underscores the importance of transparency, fairness, and ethical conduct in the polling process.

Bolger's stance on targeted polling aligns with broader discussions about the ethical responsibilities of pollsters and the impact of polling on public perception and decision-making. In democratic societies, polling serves as a tool for understanding public sentiment and preferences, and it can influence political campaigns, policy decisions, and media narratives. As such, the integrity of polling methods and the impartiality of the data collected are of paramount importance.

The criticism articulated by Bolger resonates with ongoing debates about the role of polling in shaping public opinion and the potential for biased or misleading practices to distort the democratic discourse. It underscores the need for vigilance and ethical scrutiny in the conduct of polls, as well as the importance of promoting critical thinking and informed engagement with survey data. Bolger's words serve as a reminder of the ethical imperatives that underpin the practice of polling and the broader responsibilities associated with the collection and interpretation of public opinion data.