Public Opinion

In a democracy, politics starts with the issues and concerns of the public. To get us thinking about public opinion, take a few minutes to consider a political issues or government policy that you care about AND are willing to discuss with your classmates. Examples of such issues include the dangers posed by nuclear weapons, the environment (global warming), the “war on terror,” military (“defense”) spending, civil rights and civil liberties, crime, capital punishment, taxes, welfare, corporate power, immigration, financial aid to students, single-payer health care, and gun control. In approximately two pages, tell us what your position is on this issue or policy, and explain why you care so much about it. If you discuss nuclear weapons, do so in the context of Elaine Scarry’s argument in Thermonuclear Monarchy. This will be a required question on the final exam, so it might be helpful to tackle it now.