Course Chronology & Reading Assignments

2016-17 AP U.S. Government & Politics Course Chronology & Reading Assignments UNIT WEEK TOPICS COVERED READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS ASSIGNMENTS (You must write out the questions) Week 1  Syllabus Color Coding *All reading assignments are subject ______- Reading to change or modification;  Expectations assignments from the substitution or updating may occur & Procedures Lanahan Reading in the throughout the year as new material / American Polity, 4th Ed.  Weekly resources become available or time Assignments (2007) ______- Reading packets constraints compel the class to (photo-copied handouts) consolidate units/readings Unit 1 Week 2 Chapter 1 – Wilson: Chapter 1 Home Work Questions The Study of American The Lanahan Readings in the Government The Lanahan Readings in American Polity, 4th Ed. (2007) the Chapter 22 – American Polity, 4th Ed #7 – Robert Bellah & Others - Habits of Who Governors? To (2007). the Heart (pages 34 to 39) What Ends?  # 7 - Robert Bellah Do you agree or disagree with the & Others - Habits following statement? of the Heart "In a healthy society the private and the public are not mutually exclusive, not in competition with each other. They are,  #12 - C. Wright instead, two halves of a whole, two poles Mills - The Power of a paradox. They work together Elite dialectically, helping to create and nurture one another." What was Bellah trying to  #13 - Richard get at about the nature of society? Zwegenhaft & G. William Domhoff #12 - C. Wright Mills -The Power Elite Diversity in the (pages 71 to 78) Power Elite Mills believed that the Power Elite, rather than setting up explicit organizations who membership is strictly limited to its own  #14 Robert Dahl – members, would more likely use existing Who Governors? organizations to further their agenda. and A Preface to Can that statement still be proven true Democratic Theory today? Provide examples and evidence to support your conclusions.

#13 – Richard Zwegenhaft & G.William Domhoff - Diversity in the Power Elite (pages 79 to 87) According to Zwegenhaft & Domhoff the Power Elite’s new diversity is in name alone; below the veneer the attitudes and mindset of the old power elite still remains. In essence, the people change – not the mindset. Why is this the case? Do you agree or disagree?

#14 Robert Dahl – Who Governors? and A Preface to Democratic Theory (pages 88 to 94) Robert Dahl contends that public policy is made by “steady appeasement of relatively small groups”. How does this theory help explain what is commonly considered gridlock and inaction in the federal government when setting policy. Provide examples to illustrate the real world consequences of pluralism.

1 UNIT WEEK TOPICS COVERED READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS ASSIGNMENTS Unit 1 Week 3 Chapter 22 – Wilson: Chapter 1 Home Work Questions Who Governors? To A Primer of Politics What Ends? Wilson: Chapter 22 (photo-copied packet of readings)

A Primer of Politics. #1 – The Teachings of Niccolo  #1 – The Machiavelli Teachings of In order to achieve a desired goal, a Niccolo Machiavelli politician/leader/government may have to be unethical, untruthful, or even commit an illegal act. Machiavelli believed that  #4 – The Value this was a form of pragmatism; do you and Vice of Power agree or disagree? Do the ends justify the means? Use historical/political  #28 – The examples as the context for your reply. Pragmatics and Demonics of #4 – The Value and Vice of Power Power: What What aspect of power, either coercion or Good and Evil Can persuasion, could best be used to get the Government Do masses to support the actions of the government? Reference / research the debate about Obama’s health care program to examine how both these approaches were used to achieve passage of the health care bill.

#28 – The Pragmatics and Demonics of Power: What Good and Evil Can Government Do Would Machiavelli understand/support the rule of Joseph Stalin within the accomplishments he made in the U.S.S.R.? In essence either refute or support the statement “the ends justify the means”.

2 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 1 Week 4 Chapter 4 – Wilson: Chapter 4 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4th American Ed (2007). Political The Lanahan Readings Culture in the American Polity, #1 – Alexis De Tocqueville- Democracy in America 4th Ed. (2007) (pages 3 to 6) Since it’s colonization, Americans have been blessed  #1 – Alexis De with vast expanses of easily obtainable land. This Tocqueville- reality was radically different from the found in most of Democracy in nations of the Old World. Speculate how the physical America. environment of North America (and the abundance of natural resources) enabled the flourishing of equality  #2 – James and democracy in the United States. Bryce - The American #2 – James Bryce - The American Commonwealth Commonwealth (pages 7 to 10) Bryce concludes Americans regard one another as  #3 – Louis Hartz fundamentally equal as human beings although - The Liberal acknowledging differences in wealth, education, and Tradition in social status. Does this tradition still hold true today in America modern America? Do Americans still view one another as fundamentally equal or not? Elaborate and provide examples while referencing the text.  #4 – Theda Skocpol – #3 – Louis Hartz -The Liberal Tradition in America Diminished (pages 11 to 16) Democracy Hartz poses the question, "Can a people (Americans) that are born equal ever understand peoples elsewhere  #5 – Cornel that have become so?" Respond to Hartz's question West - Race within the context of the article. Cite modern examples Matters of areas outside the United States (especially our recent occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan) in  #6 – Michael exploring the limitations of understanding the Kammen - importance of equality as a founding principle of People of democracy. Paradox #4 – Theda Skocpol – Diminished Democracy (pages 17 to 22)  Seymour Martin Skocpol writes that “a transformed civics America – Lipset - still a nation of organizers but much less a nation of American joiners, because civic leaders were no longer Exceptionalism committed to mobilizing vast number of fellow citizens into ongoing membership activities . . . “ Are modern elites making a fundamental political mistake and undermining traditional democratic principles by failing to reach out and mobilize the masses? Could this explain the disconnect that many Americans feel towards government today?

#5 – Cornel West - Race Matters (pages 22 to 29) In recent memory it can be argued that one of the low points in race relations in the United States was disaster in post-Katrina New Orleans. A high point, the election of the first African-American president in 2008. Citing examples from recent news articles and stories argue whether racism is still a prevalent issue in the United States or has the nation finally put this dark past to rest.

#6 - Michael Kamman - People of Paradox (pages 30 to 33) In your opinion, how does the rest of the worldview the 3 United States within the context of so many contradictions, ambiguities, and the dualistic nature of our culture? In particular I want you to think about how the Arab world views the United States in regards to the Israeli / Palestinian conflict.

Seymour Martin Lipset - American Exceptionalism. (Photo-copied handout of reading) Speculate why Americans still believe and cherish the "ideals" of America yet continue to distrust and lose faith in the government. Provide contemporary examples to support your conclusion.

Unit 1 Week 5 Unit 1 Test - 60 Test Matching Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

4 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 2 Week 6 Chapter 2 – Wilson: Chapter 2 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, The U.S. 4th Ed (2007). Constitution  The Lanahan #8 - Richard Hofstadter -The American Political Readings in the Tradition (pages 43 to 48) American Polity, 4th Ed How did the Founding Fathers reconcile the type of (2007). government they created to the perceived nature of  #8 - Richard man? In essence, explain how the fear of Hofstadter - The democracy lent to the crafting of the U.S. American Political Constitution. Tradition #9 - James Madison - Federalist #10 (pages 49  #9 - James to 55) One of the greatest concerns that Madison had in Madison – Federalist drafting a new constitution was the dangerous and #10 divisive nature of factions. Madison realized that factions could not be removed - only their effects  #10 – Michael could be controlled. What did he mean? How does Kammen – A Machine a federal system of government limit the impact of That Would Go of Itself factions and help to preserve unity? Provide specific examples to support your argument.  #15 James Madison – Federalist #10 – Michael Kammen – A Machine That Would #51 Go of Itself (pages 56 to 61) Kamman views the Star Trek episode “The Omega Glory” as an allegorical example of how society has come to  #16 Woodrow worship and revere the Constitution without actually Wilson – Congressional understanding its principles or goals. Defend or Government refute Kammen’s thesis citing both examples from the text and modern society.  #17 James Sterling Young – The #15 - James Madison – Federalist #51 Washington (pages 97 to 100) Community: 1800 – What did Madison mean when he wrote, "if angles 1828 were to govern men, neither external nor internal controls on government would be necessary"? What can you infer about how Madison viewed human depravity and why it needed to be controlled.

#16 – Woodrow Wilson – Congressional Government (pages 101 to 107) Wilson’s strongest negative judgment is leveled at congressional committees. He considered them to be major impediments to getting the nation’s business accomplished efficiently. Do you agree with Wilson’s assessment or do you believe these committees serve as an important check and balance against presidential power?

#17 – James Sterling Young – The Washington Community: 1800 – 1828 (pages 108 to 113) Early governmental officials living in Washington D.C. segregated themselves within the city boundaries based upon branch they served in more so than by party. James Sterling Young contends “ a fragmented social system of small blocs, more anarchic than cohesive, seems hardly to meet the minimal requirements for a viable system of managing social conflict . . . “ Did this early pattern of disassociation and apartness help to lay the 5 groundwork for later gridlock in the 21st century?

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 2 Week 7 Chapter 3 – Wilson: Chapter 3 & 18 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, Federalism 4 th Ed (2007) The Lanahan Readings in Chapter 18 – the #18 - James Madison - The Federalist 39 and 46 Economic American Polity, 4th Ed. (pages 117 to 120) Policy (2007) What are the distinct and essential characteristics of the republic form of government? What is key in  #18 - James Madison's claim that the establishment of the new Madison - The Constitution would be a federal, and not a national Federalist 39 and 46. constitution? Do you agree or disagree with his conclusions? Why?  #19 - Daniel Elazar - American Federalism. #19 - Daniel Elazar - American Federalism (pages 121 to 125)  #20 - David Despite the national government becoming a more "centralized" government, the state governments Osborne - Laboratories continue to survive. According to Elazar, what does of Democracy. this survival prove? Regarding the debate surrounding health care reform would this issue be  #21 Larry Gerston better handled by state level government or by the & Terry Christensen – federal government? Recall. #20 - David Osborne - Laboratories of Democracy (pages 126 to 134) After reviewing the actions of Bruce Babbitt, would you concluded that big or small government is better for society? Explain. Provide examples to illustrate your position.

#21 - Larry Gerston & Terry Christensen – Recall (pages 135 to 143). After reading the article speculate how effective direct democracy is and whether or not the Framers would have had a favorable view of Recall elections.

Unit 2 Week 8 Unit 2 Test - 60 Matching Test Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

6 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 3 Week 9 Chapter 8 – Wilson: Chapter 8 Annual Editions: American Government Political #50 –Michael Lewis, New York Times Magazine Participation Annual Editions: American Dec. 17, 2001 Government (Photo-copied handout of reading) “The Two-Bucks-a-Minute Democracy.”  #50 –Michael How has the Internet and Web TV changed the Lewis, New York nature of polling in the United States? Identify any Times Magazine problems or shortcomings with instant polling? Dec. 17, 2001“The Two-Bucks-a- American Politics: Classic and Contemporary Minute Readings Democracy.” (Photo-copied handout of reading). #5.1 - Micah L. Sifry - "Finding the Lost Voters." Perspectives on American Sifry argues that voter turnout would increase if Politics party candidates ran progressive and populist  #5.1 - Micah L. campaigns. Is it likely that parties in the future will Sifry - take his advice? Do you have any additional  "Finding the Lost suggestions that might help to increase voter Voters." participation? #5.2 - Michael Schudson - "Voting Rites: Why  #5.2 - Michael We Need a New Concept of Citizenship." Schudson - "Voting What does Schudson mean by "the burden of Rites: Why We Progressivism"? Does the Progressive model of Need a New citizenship seem unrealistic when applied to today's Concept of voters? Have you personally experienced the Citizenship." "burden of Progressivism"?

 #5.3 - Robert D. #5.3 - Robert D. Putnam - "Bowling Alone: Putnam -"Bowling America's Declining Social Capital." Alone: America's What is "social capital" and how is it linked to Declining Social politics? What indicators suggest that social capital Capital." is in decline in the United States?

7 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 3 Week 10 Chapter 9 – Wilson: Chapter 9 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed Political (2007) Parties The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, #73 – Walter Dean Burnham - Critical Elections and 4th Ed (2007) the Mainsprings of American Politics (pages 511 to 515) According to Walter Dean Burnham there have been  #73 – Walter five major critical realigning elections 1800, 1828, 1860, Dean Burnham 1898, and 1932. Speculate why it has been over eighty - Critical years since the United States a realigning election. Elections and What factors or events could lead to a future realigning the election in the United States; does it seem likely? Mainsprings of American #74 – James Ceaser & Andrew Busch – Red Over Politics. Blue (pages 516 to 526) During the 2008 presidential election many “red” states  #74 – James voted blue – most importantly Virginia and North Ceaser & Carolina. Is it feasible to conclude that many more Andrew Busch states have could now be considered “purple” or swing – Red Over states or was the 2008 election an abnormality to the Blue. norm?

 #75 – Earl #75 – Earl Black & Merle Black – The Rise of Southern Republicans (pages 527 to 534) Black & Merle Since the passage of the Civil Right Act in 1964 and Black – The reinforced by the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980 the Rise of American South has become the primary bastion of the Southern Republican Party in the United States. This has forced Republicans. the party to adopt a much more conservative position on most issues, especially those that tend to be considered  #76 – John culture war topics, than the rest of the country. What Barcia – Latino are the implications of the Republican Party as the Politics in nation moves into the 21st century while still adhering to America. the wishes of it’s political base?

 #77 – John #76 – John Barcia – Latino Politics in America White – The (pages 535 to 540) Values Divide. The U.S. Census Department predicts that Hispanics will surpass Caucasians as the largest segment of U.S. society. Predict how this new reality will change both  #78 – Mark American politics and government in the 21st century. Monmonier – Bushmanders #77 – John White – The Values Divide (pages 541 to and 547) Bullwinkes. Culture war issues such as abortion, gun control, gay marriage, etc. in America tend to vary in importance to the typical voter from election cycle to election cycle. Why do many of these issues lack “staying power” as the primary motivation for voters from election to election?

#78 – Mark Monmonier – Bushmanders and Bullwinkes (pages 548 to 557) Mark Monmonier raises three questions in his article regarding redistricting and allotment of electoral votes following the census: should race matter, should shape matter, and should geography matter. In your assessment should any of these factors be a 8 consideration when redrawing political boundaries? Would it be possible to remove politics out of this process and maintain the basic premise of one person, one vote?

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 3 Week 11 Chapter 10 – Wilson: Chapter 10 #11 – Lani Guinier - The Tyranny of the Majority Elections (pages 62 to 70) and The Lanahan Readings Does the author's thesis that "overwhelming majorities Campaigns in the American Polity, that do not have to worry about 'defectors' of minorities" 4 th Ed (2007) help to explain why many minority groups feel apathy and loathing towards our political system?

 #11 – Lani #66 – Dante Scala – Stormy Weather (pages 457 to Guinier - The 462) Tyranny of the The long and grueling primary calendar quickly reduces Majority. the competing field from a dozen or more individuals to maybe the top two or three candidates for each party’s  #66 – Dante nomination. In order for a candidate to have any chance Scala – of success they first need a bounce coming out of Iowa Stromy and especially New Hampshire. How could the primary Weather system be made “fairer” and allow a candidate to be selected that represents the broader spectrum of  #67 – Dennis American society? Johnson – No #67 – Dennis Johnson – No Place for Amateurs Place for (pages 463 to 472) Amateurs Has the rise of political hired guns to run campaigns and formulate policy has either helped or diminished the  #68 – William democratic nature of our political system? Provide Eggers – examples to support your conclusion. Government 2.0 #68 – William Eggers – Government 2.0 (pages 473 to 479)  #69 – Kathleen In 2008 John McCain and Barack Obama combined to Hall Jamieson raise over a billion dollars that would be spent on the - Dirty Politics. presidential race. Obama’s greatest source of monetary support came from internet fundraising in which citizens could donate with a click of the button and a credit card.  #70 – Stephen Has the Internet aided in the overall effort to improve Ansolabeher & political participation? Explain. Shanto Iyengar -Going #69 – Kathleen Hall Jamieson- Dirty Politics (pages Negative. 480 to 486) Does you agree with the author's assessment, "In our  #72 – Frances psychic equations, something nasty has greater power Fox Piven & and influence than something nice?" Would the Willy Richard Horton ads have been as effective if a white criminal Cloward – was used instead of Horton? Why Americans Still #70 – Stephen Ansolabeher & Shanto Iyengar - Don’t Vote. Going Negative (pages 487 to 493) The authors contend that negative ads adversely affect public opinion about the political process. Should candidates refrain from so-called negative ads, even if the information presented is true and factual? Why don't positive ads seem to carry as much "bang for the buck" as do negative ads?

#72 – Frances Fox Piven & Richard Cloward – Why Americans Still Don’t Vote (pages 500 to 507) What can be done, if anything, to improve voter participation in the United States? Is it possible to 9 overcome voter apathy? Unit 3 Week 12 Unit 3 Test – 60 Test Matching Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 4 Week 13 Chapter 7 – Wilson: Chapter 7 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed Public (2007). Opinion The Lanahan Readings #55 – Walter Lippmann - The Phantom Public (pages in the American Polity, 383 to 386) 4 th Ed (2007). According to Lippman, why is it important for the average citizen to get excited or involved in political  #55 – Walter matter? Lippman states, "When public opinion attempts Lippmann - to governor directly it is either a failure or a tyranny." Do The Phantom you agree or disagree? Public #56 –V.O. Key - Public Opinion and American  #56 – V.O. Key Democracy (387 to 392) - Public According to V.O. Key, why do politicians (the political Opinion and elite) still value and gauge public opinion even if they American tend not to trust it? Why is competition essential among Democracy. the political elite to maintain democracy?

 #57 – Thomas #57 – Thomas Cronin - Direct Democracy (pages 393 to 400) Cronin - Direct Does direct democracy measures such as initiatives, Democracy referendums, and recalls undermine government stability and the legitimacy of government? Does the  #58 – mass of people who make up society lack the necessary Lawrence knowledge, wisdom, and experience to play such a Jacobs and important role in government decision making? Robert Shapiro – Politicians #58 – Lawrence Jacobs and Robert Shapiro – Don’t Pander Politicians Don’t Pander (pages 401 to 407) Should public opinion be given more of a consideration when crafting policy and casting votes? What role does the media play in depicting Washington as out of touch with “Main Street” America? Unit 4 Week 14 Chapter 11 – Wilson: Chapter 11 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4th Interest Ed (2007) Groups The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, #60 – E.E. Schattschneider - The Semi-sovereign 4th Ed (2007) People (pages 413 to 417) What is the difference between pressure politics and #60 – E.E. party politics? Are pressure groups the universal basic Schattschneider - The ingredient of all political situations, and do they explain Semi-sovereign People. everything?

#61 – Theodore Lowi - #61 – Theodore Lowi- The End of Liberalism (pages The End of Liberalism. 418 to 423) Explain what is meant by the "derangement of power." #62 – Jeffrey Birnbaum Why does interest-group liberalism tend to be resistant - The Lobbyists. to change?

#63 – William Greider - #62 – Jeffrey Birnbaum - The Lobbyists (pages 424 Who Will Tell the to 431) People. Do lobbyist aid in the democratic process or do they undermine it? Use examples from the reading to #64 – Roberto Suro - support your conclusion. Strangers Among Us. #63 – William Greider – Who Will Tell the People #65 – Dan Balz & (pages 432 to 440) Ronald Brownstein - After reading the Greider article do you agree or 10 Storming the Gates. disagree with the following statement: "Politics gets done by confronting power directly, as persistently and rudely as seems necessary." Ensure to use specific examples from the article to support your position.

#64 – Roberto Suro - Strangers Among Us (pages 441 to 448) Does grassroots political organizations have the ability to sway government actions consistency or does the movement only have power when media attention is focused on their cause?

#65 – Dan Balz & Ronald Brownstein - Storming the Gates (449 to 453) Since the terrorist attacks on September 11th, has the anti-Washington, anti-government movement (best illustrated by the rise of the Tea Party) become more of a liability for the Republican party or should the Republicans still consider them to be an asset? Unit 4 Week 15 Chapter 12 – Wilson: Chapter 12 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4th The Media Ed. (2007) The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, #80 – Larry Sabato- Feeding Frenzy (pages 574 to 4th Ed (2007). 580) Why has the press become the proverbial pit bull when  #80 – Larry reporting the human failings of candidates? How does Sabato - Feeding the author define feeding frenzy? What are the Frenzy. implications for government and elected officials? #81 – Bradley Patterson – The White House Staff:  #81 – Bradley The Advance Office (pages 581 to 591) Patterson – The Why is it important to stage “perfect events” for both the White House Staff: media and public? Has this high bar of perfection The Advance Office turned politics in more image than substance? What does this say about us, the American people?  #82 – Martin Wattenberg – #82 – Martin Wattenberg – Where Have All the Where Have All the Voters Gone? (pages 592 to 597) Voters Gone? Does the problem of young voters apathy towards politics pose a potential long-term problem for the nation? What suggestions can you make to invigorate  #83 – Brian the youth of America to take and active interest in Anderson – South politics and most importantly vote? Park Conservatives. #83 – Brian Anderson – South Park Conservatives (pages 598 to 603) While the Internet is lauded for providing more information about politics and policy than at any other time in history it can also be argued that objectivity in news reporting has given way to more subjectivity and bias in the way events and stories are reported. Is the proliferation of Internet reporting necessarily a good thing? Elaborate on your position. Unit 4 Week 16 Unit 4 Test - 60 Test Matching Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

11 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 5 Week 17 Chapter 14 - Wilson: Chapter 14 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed The (2007) Presidency The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, #31 – Richard Neustadt - Presidential Power and the 4 th Ed (2007) Modern President (pages 199 to 204) Why is persuasive power essential for successful presidential leadership? Has President Obama’s gift for  #31 – Richard public speaking been an effective asset in achieving his Neustadt - policy agenda or not? Provide examples to validate your Presidential Power conclusion. and  the Modern #32 – Arthur Schlesinger - The Imperial Presidency President. (pages 205 to 211) Did the presidency of Richard Nixon reveal the dangers  #32 – Arthur of presidential power or did it reaffirm the belief in the Schlesinger - The political systems ability to check and balance the abuses Imperial of power? What role has the “Imperial Presidency” Presidency. played in the conflicts in both Iraq and Afghanistan? Is the “Imperial Presidency” still possible today?

 #33 – Thomas #33 – Thomas Cronin & Michael Genovese -The Cronin & Michael Paradoxes of the American Presidency (pages 212 Genovese -The to 222) Paradoxes of the Which of the nine paradoxes of the American American Presidency appears to have the most profound impact Presidency. upon the executive office? Why?

 #34 – Craig #34 – Craig Rimmerman- The Rise of the Rimmerman - The Plebiscitary Presidency (pages 223 to 230) Rise of the What are the characteristics of the plebiscitary Plebiscitary presidency? What factors have lead to the development Presidency. of the modern, personal plebiscitary presidency? Is it realistic or wise to embrace the concept of a plebiscitary president?  #35 – Kenneth Mayer – With the #35 – Kenneth Mayer – With the Stroke of a Pen Stroke of a Pen (pages 231 to 238) Should the president have the ability to issue executive  #36 – Bradley orders without some oversight or approval of the other Patterson – The two branches of government? What are the dangers of White House Staff: allowing the president to wield this much power alone? Chief of Staff Use modern examples to discuss while discussing your point of view.

#36 – Bradley Patterson – The White House Staff: Chief of Staff (pages 239 to 246) Some political scientist contend that the White House Chief of Staff is the second most powerful individual in Washington today. Refute or support this statement based upon the arguments laid out in Patterson’s article. Can this position be both an asset and liability for the President? Why?

12 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS

Unit 5 Weeks Chapter 20 Wilson: Chapter 20 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed. (2007) 18-19 Foreign #87 – Benjamin Barber – Jihad vs. McWorld (pages 631 to 638) Policy The Lanahan Readings Over the course of the 21st century part of the world continues to embrace in the American Polity, American (Western) style democracy, consumerism and technological 4 th Ed (2007). innovation while another part of the world embraces some form of jihad against the rapid social and economic changes brought about by Western culture. Is it possible for these two completing worldviews to reach #87 –  compromise and co-exist peacefully or is Earth bound for an endless Benjamin Barber – episodes of conflicts during the next 80 to 90 years? Jihad vs. McWorld. #88 – Samuel Huntington – The Clash of Civilizations (pages 639 to  #88 – Samuel 648) Huntington – The As the world shifts from the reality of a unipolar (one superpower) world to Clash of a multipolar (multi-power centers) the hegemony (or dominance) of the Civilizations. United States continues to be challenged, especially in a battle of the political soul of the third world. First, why is it important that the United States simply not cut its losses and write off the third world and second,  #89 – Joseph why is anti-western doctrine and extreme forms of religion so enticing to Nye – Soft Power. many third world cultures today?

 #90 – #89 – Joseph Nye – Soft Power (pages 649 to 657) Chalmars Johnson Joseph Nye contends that soft power is just as valuable as hard power in – Blowback. molding world opinion and creating stability. Many critics however argue that the United States should not be worried about “global popularity” Annual Editions: when making foreign policy decisions. Should more emphasis be placed Violence and Terrorism on soft power or should the United States continue to rely primarily on (08-09) hard power? Use the two conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan as a basis of (Photo-copied handout your argument. of reading) #90 – Chalmars Johnson – Blowback (pages 658 to 664) Charlmars Johnson contends that the U.S. military, mostly unaccountable  #11 Arlene B. for its actions, has been the primary source of blowback against the Tickner, Current United States. Is this a fair assessment or is the military simply executing History, Feb. 2003. the orders and directives issued by the President? Columbia and the U.S.: From # 11 Christopher Layne, Current History, January 2008. China’s Counternarcotics to Challenge to U.S. Hegemony. Counter-Terrorism. (Photo-copied handout of reading) What, if anything, can the United States due to deal with China’s growing Annual Editions: economic and eventual military prowess in Asia? What are the short and American Foreign Policy long term implications of an emerging Chinese military in Asia? (09-10) (Photo-copied handout #12 Jacques E.C. Hymans, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, of reading) May/June 2007. North Korea’s Nuclear Neurosis. (Photo-copied handout of reading) Has the United States, and the world, misread what may be the true # 11 Christopher  driving force of why nations like North Korea may want the bomb – Layne, Current national pride? Is a second Korean war worth the price of getting rid of History, January North Korea’s nuclear weapons? 2008. China’s Challenge to U.S. #16 David Frum, The National Insterst, January/February 2008. Hegemony. Foggy Bloggom. (Photo-copied handout of reading) According to David Frum “the  #12 Jacques E.C. blogosphere is a place of anger and enthusiasm” and tends to have more Hymans, Bulletin of extreme views than most individuals in the foreign policy community. Is the Atomic there a danger that the blogosphere may drive U.S. politicians and foreign Scientists, policy to more extreme positions than more traditional experts would May/June 2007. recommend? Does the Internet actually worsen global tensions ? North Korea’s Nuclear Neurosis. #18 Daviel Yankelovich, Foreign Affairs, May/June 2006. The Tipping Points. (Photo-copied handout of reading)  #16 David Frum, In issues of foreign policy how much credence should elected officials The National and policy markers give the opinions of the masses considering they lack 13 Insterst, the knowledge or context of a foreign policy crisis? Can a public official January/February not consider public opinion when formulating and implementing foreign 2008. Foggy policy? Provide examples to support your conclusion. Bloggom.

 #18 Daviel Yankelovich, Foreign Affairs, May/June 2006. The Tipping Points

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 5 Week 20 Chapter 21 Wilson: Chapter 21 #34 - Andrew J. Bacevich, Current History, 2005. Military Requiem for the Bush Doctrine. Policy Annual Editions: (Photo-copied handout of reading) American Foreign Is military power an effective instrument of foreign policy Policy 09-10 today? What problems is it best and least capable of (Photo-copied solving? handouts) #35 – P.W. Singer, Foreign Affairs, March/April 2005. Outsourcing War.  #34 - Andrew J. (Photo-copied handout of reading) Bacevich, Current What are the benefits and dangers of hiring private History, 2005. contractors to fulfill security duties and operations that Requiem for the have traditionally been conduct by the U.S. military Bush Doctrine. alone? Do you agree with the practice of sub-contracting out military and security operations?  #35 – P.W. Singer, Foreign Affairs, #36– Bennett Ramberg, Fulletin of Atomic Scientist, March/April 2005. July/August 2006. Preemption Paradox. Outsourcing War. (Photo-copied handout of reading) Despite the repeated threats of the use of force against  #36– Bennett rouge nations with nuclear weapons (Iran and N. Korea) the United States has yet failed to carry out these Ramberg, Fulletin threats? Why? Is the threat of force diminished as an of Atomic Scientist, effective tool when it is never carried out? What other July/August 2006. options exist to deal with these problems? Preemption Paradox. #37 – Steven Metz, Parameters, Winter 2007/08. New Challenges and Old Concepts.  #37 – Steven Metz, (Photo-copied handout of reading) Parameters, Winter Is it possible to win a counterinsurgency without being 2007/08. willing to use any means necessary to achieve that  New Challenges goal? Provide examples to support your explanation. and Old Concepts. #38 – John Deutch, Foreign Affairs, January/February 2005. A Nuclear Posture for  #38 – John Deutch, Today. Foreign Affairs, (Photo-copied handout of reading) January/February Should the United States continue to seek nuclear arms 2005. A Nuclear reduction agreements with Russia and the other major Posture for Today. nuclear-armed nations? Why has the issue of reduction not seem to have been a major priority of any administration since the end of the Cold War?

14 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 5 Week 21 Chapter 15 – Wilson: Chapter 15 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th The Ed. (2001) Bureaucracy The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, #37 – Hugh Heclo - A Government of Strangers 4 th Ed. (2007) (pages 249 to 255) What is an "iron triangle" and how does it influence the operation of a bureaucracy? Although political  #37 – Hugh Heclo executives recognize that they cannot stop bureaucratic - A Government of sabotage, they are not helpless against it. What actions Strangers. can they take to prevent sabotage?

 #38 – Joel #38 – Joel Aberrach and Bert Rockman – In the Web Aberrach and Bert of Politics (pages 256 to 261) Rockman – In the Who really runs government? Elected officials and their Web of Politics. appointees or the government bureaucrats who have years of experience and job security? Base your  #39 – Robert arguments on those that were outlined in the article. Reich – Locked in #39 – Robert Reich – Locked in the Cabinet (pages the Cabinet. 262 to 273) Do bureaucrats deserve all of the negative press they  #40 – James Q. receive? After reading Robert Reich’s article assess the Wilson - importance of the bureaucrat as a vital component is Bureaucracy. ensuring our government actually works.

#40 – James Q. Wilson – Bureaucracy (pages 274 to 279) Do you agree or disagree with Wilson's thesis that bureaucratic inefficiency is usually acceptable for the services the government provides? Unit 5 Week 22 Unit 5 Test - 60 Test Matching Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

15 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 6 Weeks Chapter 13 – Wilson: Chapter 13 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed. (2007) 23-24 Congress Wilson: Chapter 17 #22 – David Mayhew - Congress – The Electoral Connection Chapter 17 – (pages 147 to 149) The Lanahan Readings in Of the three activities mentioned by Mayhew (advertising, credit Policy the American Polity, 4 th claiming, and position taking), which is the most effective and Making Ed. (2007) why? Process #23 – Richard Fenno - Home Style (pages 150 to 155) #22 – David Mayhew -  Why is the "presentation of self" for a Congressional member Congress – The important in their home district? What is the difference in the Electoral Connection. roles of a "delegate" and a "trustee" and how does that affect how an elected official approaches their job?  #23 – Richard Fenno - Home Style. #24 – Sarah Binder – Stalemate (pages 156 to 161) Despite having control of both houses during the first two years of his term President Obama has had a very difficult time  #24 – Sarah Binder – advancing his agenda. Compromise between the Democrats Stalemate. and Republicans seems almost impossible at times and when a person of one party wishes to compromise with the opposition it  #25 – Barbara Sinclair is often political suicide. Are the days of compromise and – The “60 Vote government that actually gets something done over? Why? Senate” Elaborate. #25 – Barbara Sinclair – The “60 Vote Senate” (pages 162 to  #26 – Michele Swers 167) – The Difference Today a single Senator can upend the will of the majority by Women Make. using the filibuster. A single Senator can put a hold on a Presidential nominee for the federal bench. Should individual Senators still have this type of power or is it time to reign in the #27 – Katherine Tate  power of the individual Senator? Explain and provide examples – Black Faces in the to support your conclusion. Mirror. #26 – Michele Swers – The Difference Women Make (pages  #28 – Paul Starobin - 168 to 173) Pork: A Time- In the United States today, women are the majority gender. This Honored Tradition has translated to more women holding elected posts than any Live On. other time in history. Speculate how having so many women in government today may change the policy-making direction of the federal government in prioritizing issues of national concern.  #29 – John Ellwood & Eric Patashnik – In #27 – Katherine Tate – Black Faces in the Mirror (pages 174 Praise of Pork. to 179) Within Congress there are numerous caucus; from the  #30 – David Price – Congressional Black Caucus to the Blue Dog Democrats. Is it The Congressional appropriate that members of congress align themselves with a specific group to push a set of policies and agenda? Does the Experience. proliferation of caucuses help or hurt unity in the U.S. Congress or are they, as Madison would say, just another faction?

#28 – Paul Starobin - Pork: A Time-Honored Tradition Live On (pages 180 to 182). What are both the positive and negative effects of pork? How does pork highlight the conflict for the legislature as representatives of local interest and a national legislative body?

#29 – John Ellwood & Eric Patashnik – In Praise of Pork (pages 183 to 185) 16 Ellwood and Patashnik contend that pork is a necessity for government. Either support or refute their thesis by providing evidence cited from their article.

#30 – David Price – The Congressional Experience (pages 188 to 195) After reading this article would any sane person ever consider running for and serving in Congress? Can anything be done to improve the type of experience many Congressmen and women experience?

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 6 Week 25 Chapter 19 - Wilson: Chapter 19 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 2nd Social Ed. Welfare The Lanahan #84 – Michael Harrington - The Other American Readings in the (pages 607 to 610) American Polity, 4th In the 1960s, Harrington's book warned of increasing Ed. (2007). class polarization due to the increase of those who are in poverty. Is Harrington's assessment still true about the poor in America and society's response to these people?  #84 – Michael Elaborate. Harrington - The Other American. #85 – Milton Friedman – Free to Choose (pages 611 to 616)  #85 – Milton Do you agree or disagree with Friedman’s assertion that Friedman – Free to government limits freedom and should be curtailed? Choose. Would America benefit more or less with more or less government regulation, oversight, and control?  #86 – Sharon Hays #86 – Sharon Hays – Flat Broke with Children (pages – Flat Broke with 617 to 627) Children Why is it important that welfare be changed from simply providing benefits to a program that reward effort? Do you it is politically feasible to move in this direction? Explain.

17 UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ASSIGNMENTS ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED Unit 6 Week 26 Chapter 21 – Wilson: Chapter 21 Annual Editions: Environment 02/03 Environment #1 – J.R. McNeil, Current History, November 2000 “Ideas Policy Annual Editions: Environment Matter: A Political History of the Twentieth-Century (Photo-copied handout of Environment.” reading) (Photo-copied handout of reading) How has ideology (both on the left and the right) come to influence the environmental movement?  #1 – J.R. McNeil, Current History, November 2000 #2 – Chris Bright, The Futurist, July/August 2000 “Ideas Matter: A Political “Environmental Surprises: Planning for the Unexpected.” History of the Twentieth- (Photo-copied handout of reading) Century Environment.” Has the government failed in trying to curb human impact on the environment? What political forces drive government decisions  #2 – Chris Bright, The when it comes to environmental planning? Futurist, July/August 2000 “Environmental #3 – Ramachandra Guha, Current History, November 2000 Surprises: Planning for “The Paradox of Global Environmentalism.” the Unexpected.” (Photo-copied handout of reading) Should the United Nations be granted the power to develop an  #3 – Ramachandra Guha, international environmental policy? Could the "modernized" nations of the world do a better job of promoting environmental policy is the Current History, Third World? Explain how it would or would not be possible. November 2000 “The Paradox of Global #8 – Per Pinstrup-Andersen, Environment, July/August 2001 Environmentalism.” “Feeding the World in the New Millennium: Issues for the New U.S. Administration.”  #8 – Per Pinstrup- (Photo-copied handout of reading) Andersen, Environment, Does the United States have a moral obligation to fight global July/August 2001 hunger? Should hunger be considered a national security issue? “Feeding the World in the Explain why or why not. New Millennium: Issues for the New U.S. #12 – Richard Rosentreter, The Humanist, September/October Administration.” 2000 “Oil, Profit$, and the Question of Alternative Energy.”  #12 – Richard (Photo-copied handout of reading) What influence does the fossil fuel industry have in directing U.S. Rosentreter, The energy policy? Has this influence been responsible for the slow Humanist, development of alternative energy sources? September/October 2000 “Oil, Profit$, and the #15 – Harvey Wasserman, Multinational Monitor, June 2001 Question of Alternative Energy.” “Power Struggle: California's Engineered Energy Crisis and the Potential of Public Power.” (Photo-copied handout of reading)  #15 – Harvey Should the government have the power to re-regulate the electric Wasserman, Multinational power industry? What would be the benefits and costs of doing Monitor, June 2001 this? “Power Struggle: California's Engineered #24 – Anne Platt McGinn, USA Today Magazine, January 2000 Energy Crisis and the “Oceans Are on the Critical List.” Potential of Public (Photo-copied handout of reading) Power.” Why is it so difficult for governments to do more to protect the world's oceans? Should the health of the oceans be considered a  #24 – Anne Platt McGinn, national security issue? USA Today Magazine, January 2000 “Oceans #26 – Thomas R. Karl and Kevin E. Trenberth, Scientific American, December 1999 18 Are on the Critical List.” “The Human Impact on Climate.” (Photo-copied handout of reading)  #26 – Thomas R. Karl Some call global warming or climate change "junk science." Do you agree or disagree? Do you believe Americans would be willing to and Kevin E. Trenberth, make adjustments to their lifestyles in order to reduce global Scientific warming? What would be the political ramifications for a American,December government to advocate a policy based on reducing global 1999 “The Human Impact warming? on Climate.” #29 – Mary H. Cooper, CQ Researcher, November 24, 2000  #29 – Mary H. Cooper, “Water Quality: The Issues.” CQ Researcher, (Photo-copied handout of reading) November 24, 2000 What do Americans value more, clean water or lower taxes? Is “Water Quality: The water quality an elite issue or a majoritarian issue? Issues.” Unit 6 Week 27 Unit 6 Test - 60 Matching Test Questions, 4 Short Response Essays (2 take home)

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 7 Week 28 Chapter 16 - Wilson: 16 The Lanahan Readings in the American Polity, 4 th Ed. The Judiciary (2007) The Lanahan Readings in the #41 – Alexander Hamilton - The Federalist #78 (pages American Polity, 4 th 283 to 286). Ed. (2007). What reasons does Hamilton outline in his belief that the Judiciary is the most important of all branches of government? Do you agree or disagree with his  #41 – Alexander rationale? Explain. Hamilton - The Federalist #78. #42 – Eugene Rostow - The Democratic Character of Judicial Review (pages 287 to 290).  #42 – Eugene Why do critics of judicial review contend that it is Rostow - The undemocratic? What are the major arguments that Democratic Rostow makes that support judicial review as Character of democratic? What is your opinion of judicial review? Judicial Review. #43 – David O'Brien - Storm Center (pages 291 to  #43 – David 295). How did politics influence the Court's timing when it came O'Brien - Storm to deciding Brown v. Board of Education (1954)? "Public Center. opinion serves to curb the Court when it threatens to go too far or too fast in its ruling." Do you agree or disagree  #44 Peter Irons – with this statement. Elaborate. Brennan vs. Rehnquist #44 – Peter Irons- Brennan vs. Rehnquist (pages 296 to 301).  #45 – David Yalof – Considering the stark contrast between Brennan's and Pursuit of Justices. Rehnquist's ideologies; can individuals serving on the Supreme Court still be objective and fair when deciding on a ruling? What role does ideology play on the  #46 – Kelo v. City contemporary U.S. Supreme Court in light of some of of New London. their more recent rulings?

#45 – David Yalof – Pursuit of Justices (pages 302 to 307) Today a judicial nominee, especially a Supreme Court nominee, is under the microscope about all facets of their opinions, writings, academic background, associations, and personal history. Some scholars believe that many great past justices would not be able to meet the high bar of expectation set for today’s judges and justices. Is this process keeping many well-qualified men and women from being considered by the president for these positions? 19 #46 – Kelo v. City of New London (pages 308 to 314) In this controversial decision the U.S. Supreme Court for the first time in history allowed private property to be seized by the government and than turned that same property over to another private owner who promised to develop the area resulting in higher tax revenues for the city of New London. What are the long term ramifications of this decision and did the court blunder in its ruling?

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED ASSIGNMENTS Unit 7 Weeks Chapters 5: Wilson: 5, 6 #47 – Anthony Lewis - Gideon's Trumpet (pages 317 29-30 Civil Liberties to 325) The Lanahan Was the decision reached by the U.S. Supreme Court in Chapter 6: Readings in the Gideon v. Wainwright a validation of American due Civil Rights American Polity, 4 th process or was it simply an instance of a legal fluke that Ed. (2007). the court ended up accepting Gideon's petition? Speculate what Clarence Gideon would have to say about the large numbers of people being imprisoned  #47 – Anthony today without either being charged or going to trail since Lewis - Gideon's the war on terrorism began? Trumpet. #48 – Miranda v. Arizona (1966)  #48 – Miranda v. (pages 326 to 331) Arizona (1966). Sometimes a guilty person can escape punishment if the police do not properly apply the Miranda doctrine. Is this  #50 – Richard morally right? Recent court decisions have rolled back some of the protections provided under the Miranda Kluger - Simple case. Do you agree with the courts in limiting citizens' Justice. Miranda rights?

 #52 – Craig #50 – Richard Kluger - Simple Justice (pages 342 to Rimmerman – 349) From Identify to The American judicial system is suppose to be non- Politics. partisan in its decision making yet the Supreme Court before Chief Justice Warren seemed unwilling to tackle  #53 – Ellen the touchy situation of race relations. What inferences Alderman & can you make regarding politics, political culture, and the Caroline Kennedy - direction of court decisions based upon this reading? In Our Defense. #52 – Craig Rimmerman – From Identify to Politics (pages 358 to 365)  #54 – Mary Ann As American society seems more willing to Glendon - Rights accept/tolerate gays and lesbians how will these impact Talk. the political landscape for both political parties? Will gay- centered culture war issues either diminish or intensify with the passage of time? What impact will this have on American politics?

#53 – Ellen Alderman & Caroline Kennedy - In Our Defense (pages 366 to 374) Why do you think the Supreme Court ruled against the Native Americans claim despite their First Amendment Rights to free exercise of religion? Speculate if the Court's decision would have been the same or different if 20 a "mainstream" religion would have been involved.

#54 – Mary Ann Glendon – Rights Talk (pages 375 to 379) Has the narcissist nature of American society cheapened the meaning of the concept of "rights" in our culture? Elaborate.

UNIT WEEK TOPICS READING ASSIGNMENTS ESSAY RESPONSE QUESTIONS COVERED Unit 8 31 Chapter 25 Wilson: 25 Annual Editions: State and Local Government, 11th Edition - State and Local #4 – Carl Tubbesing, State Legislatures, February 2002 Annual Editions: State and Government “Federalism's Ups and Downs.” Local Government, 11th (Photo-copied handout of reading) Edition Which theory, Hamilton's Roosevelt's, or Franklin's do you think gives the (Photo-copied handout of best explanation for the growth of government? Why? readings) #7 – Alan Greenblatt, Governing, June 2002 “Enemies of the State.”  #4 – Carl Tubbesing, (Photo-copied handout of reading) State Legislatures, Does the tension between state and local governments serve to help or February 2002 hurt the public welfare? “Federalism's Ups and Downs.” #8 – Ted Halstead and Michael Lind, The Washington Monthly, April 2001 “Taking Charge.”  #7 – Alan Greenblatt, (Photo-copied handout of reading) Governing, Would you support the authors thesis that national, uniformed funding of June 2002 “Enemies of the American schools is needed as compared to the patchwork of funding State.” systems found in the United States today?

 #8 – Ted Halstead and #12 – Alexander Wohl, The American Prospect, May 22, 2000 Michael Lind, The “Justice for Rent.” Washington Monthly, (Photo-copied handout of reading) April 2001 “Taking Charge.” Should all judges, even district magistrates be appointed to office rather than elected? Why or why not?

 #12 – Alexander Wohl, #17 – Rob Gurwitt, Governing, August 2001 “Behind the Portal.” The American Prospect, (Photo-copied handout of reading) May 22, 2000 “Justice for Do you believe that electronic access to the government should continue to Rent.” grow? What ramifications could this access lead to?

 #17 – Rob Gurwitt, #18 – Peter Schrag, The Atlantic Monthly, March 1998 “California, Governing, Here We Come.” August 2001 “Behind the (Photo-copied handout of reading) Portal.” After the California recall of 2002, should California ever be a model for direct democracy again?

 #18 – Peter Schrag, The #20 – Charles Mahtesian, Governing, November 1998 “Grassroots Atlantic Monthly, Charade.” March 1998 “California, (Photo-copied handout of reading) Here We Come.” Why has the initiative process been hijacked by interest groups and big money? Can this trend be reversed?  #20 – Charles #31 – Alan Enrenhalt, Governing, February 2000 Mahtesian, Governing, “ November 1998 Vermont's Judicial Distillery.” (Photo-copied handout of reading) “Grassroots Charade.” Can state based decisions have larger ramification to the nation as a whole? Is this a negative reality or not? Explain.  #31 – Alan Enrenhalt, Governing, #41 – Steven Ginsberg, The Washington Monthly, October 1997 February 2000 “Vermont's “Two Cheers for the Property Tax.” 21 Judicial Distillery.” (Photo-copied handout of reading) What are the positives and negatives of the property tax? What could be used to replace it?  #41 – Steven Ginsberg, The Washington #52 – Richard Rothstein, The American Prospect, January/February Monthly, 1998 October 1997 “Two Cheers “When States Spend More.” for the Property Tax.” (Photo-copied handout of reading) If spending can make a difference in public education, why are many  #52 – Richard Rothstein, Americans still against raising more funds for schools through taxation? The American Prospect, January/February 1998 #53 – Jonathan Walters, Governing, March 2002 “The Flip Side of “When States Spend Welfare.” More.” (Photo-copied handout of reading) Has welfare reform been a success or failure?  #53 – Jonathan Walters, Governing, March 2002 “The Flip Side of Welfare.”