Today, many Americans and express disinterest in democratic politics. Recent years have seen a growth in voter turnout .among young people (aged 18-29), although rates still lag behind other age groups. An apathetic populace leaves democracy to whither. An often-cited quotation attributed to French philosopher Montesquieu (1748) is: “The tyranny of a prince in an oligarchy is not so dangerous to the public welfare as the apathy of a citizen in a democracy.”
As political science students, you should engage with or, at the bare minimum, be aware of the political world in which you live. Please complete the following assignment. Submit a brief written comment — approximately 2 paragraphs — demonstrating political awareness or engagement.
Options include (but are not limited to):
voting in the November 8, 2022 US election and commenting about the experience
discussing voting opportunities in another country (not US)
reflecting on recent legislation from US congress or an executive order from the US president
analyzing a recent US supreme court decision
discussing another matter of current political interest
Responses are graded on whether you demonstrate thoughtful reflection on opportunities for political engagement or awareness of current political developments. Students are encouraged to choose a mode or topic of interest to them. The assignment is due alongside the final essay on Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at 11:59PM. There is no right or wrong answer here; we just want you to participate in or think about politics in REAL LIFE.
