Assignment

Question 1

Describe how public opinion is measured in the United States and the problems that can arise as a result of this measurement. Also discuss how public opinion can influence government policy. Cite a specific example.

Question 2

Discuss the structure and role of party organizations. Mention each level of party organization-local, state, and national-including what the function is of each in modern politics.

Question 3

Do you feel that it is important that every person that is legally allowed to vote does so? Why or why not? Do you feel that it is easy for most people to go and vote? Why or why not? Describe some common trends that keep people from voting. Describe other methods besides voting that people can use to participate in the political process. Have you every participated in any of these methods? If so, what did you do?

Question 4

How does our current party system impact elections? How can a minor party play a part in an election?

Look back at the case of Antoine Jones. Police and FBI officers, acting without a warrant and using a GPS device, tracked his car 24 hours a day for nearly a month. The information they gathered contributed to his arrest and conviction on drug charges. If you had been on the Supreme Court, how would you have voted in this case? Would you have allowed the evidence to be used? What arguments would you have made to support your position?

Optional: A new religious school has been proposed for your community. State and federal funds for buildings, roads and utilities are desired to help start the school. It is a private school for only those of a certain religion. What should the position of the government be here? Does the religion type itself make any difference? Why or why not?

William Galston of the University of Maryland and the Brookings Institution notes that some democracies, including Australia and Italy, require citizens to vote or pay a fine. These countries have exceptionally high turnout levels. "Our low turnout rate," Galston says, "pushes American politics toward increased polarization."

Would you favor a law requiring Americans to vote or pay a fine if they fail to do so? What are some other incentives that might encourage more people to vote? If the United States had such a policy do you think, as William Galston does, that it would significantly reduce the level of party polarization?