political since

Assignment #3: How Democratic is America?

DUE: May 21, 2014

A. READ THE ATTACHED ARTICLE (also on Blackboard):

1. “How Democratic is America” by Howard Zinn  AND “How Democratic is America: A Response to Howard Zinn” by Sidney Hook.

B. INTERVIEW TWO PEOPLE:

*These are suggested questions – you may develop and use your own.

1. What does a quality democracy look like? Do we have one today – why or why not? 

2. Do you trust politicians?  

3. Are you optimistic or pessimistic about the ability of government to solve problems and improve our communities and country?

4. Do you feel like you know enough how our government works?

C. QUESTIONS TO PONDER:

1. Do you agree with Zinn or Hook (or both)? 

2. Contestation and debate are a central component of American democracy – what are the positive and negative effects of this? 

3. Which branch has the most power? Why? Does any branch have too much power?

4. Do you believe that the masses/majority “own” their government today? Why or why not?

5. Do you believe the system fundamentally flawed or is being abused? Is there possibility for improvement in the quality of our democracy? Explain why or why not.

WRITE:

Write a 3-4page (double-spaced) essay that expresses your thoughtful consideration of this question. Support and develop your opinion by referencing the assigned reading (reference specific ideas), interviews, and what you have learned about our democracy. You must demonstrate in your essay that you did the reading and conducted the interviews.