READER DOUBTS THE DEPENDABILITY OF POLLS

To the Editor:

On Friday night of last week, the telephone rang. Long distance. Gallup Poll was calling from Lincoln, Neb.

After the formality of introduction and identification, questioning got on the way. Unlike "Wheel of Fortune," they were opinion questions. Some were relatively clear and to the point; others resembled rapid-fire blockbusters, the analysis of which required the astuteness of a lawyer.

No time was allowed to meditate. The answer was "yes" or "no," you agreed or disagreed. A short pause would be rated "undecided." Under pressure, you were expected to have the answer right now. This requires an IQ which simultaneously travels city streets, expressways, highways, byways, country lanes, and carport ramp, a talent not possessed by every mortal.

This mode of operation prompts me to question the credibility as well as accuracy and, therefore, the value of polls so conducted. Many answers, it is safe to say, are pure guesses. Many "undecided," I believe, are due to lack of time for reasonable deliberation.

If a questionnaire were mailed, the result would, in my opinion, be more reliable. Some deserving thought could be given to the subject at hand. It may be claimed that such mail is not given attention. That depends on the kind of mail received. If a questionnaire arrived stating on face of envelope, for example, "GALLUP POLL - REPLY IN FOUR DAYS," it would not be put into limbo and ten days later nonchalantly pulled out. Much less, would it be pitched. The Gallup Poll prestige generates attention priority.

My esteem of polls has shriveled. On the basis of last week's call from Lincoln, Neb., I have major reservations on the dependability of polls so assembled. To be a little more discreet, they are accepted with the proverbial grain of salt.

Rev. Walter Keisker

Jackson