That of and those of

[Freeguy]

Doctors rarely agree, as a recent survey comparing their attitudes and that of the public shows.


Don't we use those of if the first subject of comparison is plural(here: attitudes)? Are that of and those of interchangeable?

Thanks!

 

[Grumpy]

Yes, we do; and no, they aren't - in this case, anyway.

 

[SoothingDave]

In this case "the public" is being thought of as one. So one attitude that "the public" has. That of the public.