Low voter turnout and widespread cynicism, an apathetic and politically unknowledgeable public opinion, our rush to go to war with Iraq, our lack of compassion for socialist solutions to help the poor, negative electoral campaigns, porkbarrel politics, divided government and the further ideological divide between Republicans and Democrats add up to contentious, deadlocked U.S.
Policy making. Many have argued that American politics is in crisis as we struggle over the debt ceiling issue as we speak.
1. Do you agree that these problems constitute a crisis in America's political system or merely partisan politics? If so, what are the major features of this crisis? If not, what are the problems of American democracy, and why don't they add up to a crisis?
2. Discuss how this question applies to politics in California. Be as specific as you can.
3. What solutions does the U.S. system of government offer? Does our system need radical reform? In your answer, be sure to address the nature of the American electorate (i.e. apathy and role of public opinion), the role of the power elite, the increasing power of the federal government, and the nature of election campaigns as well as the role of the media.