For Class on 2/5: American Political Culture

This course will focus primarily on the American political system and how it affects us as citizens (and hopefully how we can affect it as well). Part of our reading this week discusses the interaction between trust in politics, knowledge in politics, and a sense of political efficacy. It also detailed the incredibly low level of political knowledge held by most Americans. That is something we will try to change this semester. Regardless of how much you know about our government or how much you trust it, it impacts you every day in many ways. As illustrated in Box 1.1 (pg. 6) and Fig. 1.1 (pg. 8) the government plays a large role in your life. This week I would like you to discuss any or all of these issues. Two questions that you might want to answer:

1. Although the government impacts us each and every day, most Americans don't know much about it or don't care. Why do you think that is the case?
2. How do you feel knowing that the government plays such a huge role in your life? Safe? Secure? Nervous? Vulnerable?

Remember: Your answers should be approximately one long or two short paragraphs and no more (around 150 words). No research is necessary but think carefully about what you want to write and respond to the ideas presented on the blog, not the people. Happy blogging!

Welcome

Welcome to your poliblog experience! Each week you will be required to read the post for that week (which may include a news article, question, comment, controversial issue, etc.) and respond with your comments. Each of your comments should be no more than 1/2 page (approx. 150 words) and must be posted by 8:00 Thursday night. You do not need to do any outside research in order to respond, just reflect on the topic of that week, the other comments posted on the blog and make an argument presenting your views. You must post at least one comment on 8 different weeks (NOTE: you do not need to write a comment every week). But you MUST read the post and all comments either Wednesday night or Thursday each week. Enjoy the world of the poliblog.