Assignment:
Which theory best explains who has political power in American politics:pluralism, power elite (Four Networks) or a combination of both?
In other words, can people influence decision by voting in elections and participating in interest groups (Pluralism), or do you have to be a member of the power elite (a leader in one of the Four Networks) to have a real impact on political decisions? What role are public opinion, interest groups and the corporate/government elite playing in the current political struggle over health care reform? Who do you think will win and why?
Use examples and facts to support your arguments. Make sure you include specific references.
Address the below questions in your analysis:
What role does the media play in our democracy? For example, has online media (blogs, social networking, websites, etc) help us become better informed and or involved in the issues that impact us, like health care? Or is it a tool of power elite? What forms of technology or media do you/could you use to become more informed or involved politically?
If more people voted, would the government be more responsive to their needs? How can we increase voter turnout among younger voters, people of color, and lower income voters? Can technology be used to mobilize people to participate and vote, especially young voters? Did the Presidential election in 2008 or the health care debate increase your own political awareness or participation? Why or why not? hide problem