How can an attitude be defined according to the provided text?

An attitude can be defined as an organized combination of knowledge and feelings because it reflects a stable and enduring evaluation that shapes a person's thoughts and behaviors. This definition captures the essence of how attitudes are formed through experiences, beliefs, and emotional responses. By emphasizing the combination of knowledge and feelings, it highlights that attitudes are not simply spontaneous reactions or passing thoughts; rather, they are developed over time, influenced by various factors such as culture, personal experiences, and social interactions. This understanding is crucial in contexts like social psychology and behavioral studies, where attitudes play a key role in influencing an individual’s decisions and actions.

Other options do not encapsulate the complexity of an attitude; a temporary reaction and a fleeting thought suggest a lack of durability and depth, while a social norm pertains to accepted standards of behavior rather than personal evaluations or orientations.