GOVT 30 - Second Discussion Paper Topics
Write a paper of no more than three pages
(double-spaced) to address and answer one of the following three questions. The
paper should be turned in to your TF Friday, March 17,
In your papers, be sure to do the following: (1) answer the question directly, (2) organize your paper around a simple argument that is stated at the beginning of the paper, (3) minimize typographical and grammatical errors, (4) draw upon some relevant readings from the class, and (5) consider potential or actual counterarguments against your position.
(1) Are political parties factions in the sense that Hamilton and Madison worried about them in Federalist #9 and #10 (respectively)? Explain why you agree or disagree with the statement. Your argument should include a discussion of the purposes political parties serve and the roles they play in politics (see, for example, Aldrich).
(2) In November of 1994 Republicans achieved a stunning set of victories in midterm elections that propelled them to congressional majority status for the first time in over four decades. Combined with the presidential elections of 2000 and 2004, the 1994 midterms ushered the national GOP into control of the national legislature and the presidency. Many analysts have argued that the 1994 elections were the beginning of a massive partisan alignment in party affiliation and identification, much like the one that occurred in 1932 to sweep the Democrats into power. Using what you have learned about parties, and proceeding from a clear concept of alignment and party identification, offer your judgment about whether in fact the 1994 midterms (followed by the 2000 and 2004 elections) constitute a partisan alignment. (Please try to dissociate yourself from your own partisanship in making your case.)
(3) A recent (hypothetical) study conducted by Professor Opin Yonpol asked a sample of 1,205 Web survey respondents the following question: "Do you agree with President George W. Bush's plan to stimulate the economy by cutting your taxes by another half trillion dollars over 5 years?" Professor Yonpol found that 60% of those surveyed agreed with President Bush's stimulus plan, while 20% disagreed and another 20% claimed not to know enough to answer the question. Based on these results, Professor Yonpol stated that Americans favor Bush's stimulus plan by a three-to-one margin. Are Professor Yonpol's conclusions warranted? Why or why not? In your argument, offer your interpretation of these results. In addition, briefly discuss 2 additional pieces of information you would like to have that would allow you to evaluate the results more effectively.