1) “Today there is a steadily growing body of knowledge about the environment and its impacts on the duration and quality of all forms of life. There is also steadily growing alarm. The more we learn the more we realize that our misuse of the environment can come home to roost. Not only nonhuman life forms are endangered; human life itself is threatened” (William Blackstone). What do we, as Americans, do about it?
4) “The President and Senators so chosen will always be of the number of those who best understand our national interests, whether considered in relation to the several States or to foreign nations, who are best able to promote those interests, and whose reputation for integrity inspires and merits confidence” – John Jay Federalist #64. Is he right about politicians today? Why or why not? How can we attain this now?
6) Which should have more influence on the government – the media, factions, interest groups, or political parties? Why?
7) “Certainly, Gentlemen, it ought to be the happiness and glory of a representative to live in the strictest union, the closest correspondence, and the most unreserved communication with his constituents. Their wishes ought to have great weight with him; their opinions high respect; their business unremitted attention. It is his duty to sacrifice his repose, his pleasure, his satisfactions, to theirs – and above all, ever, and in all cases, to prefer their interest to his own” (Edmund Burke). Is he right about politicians today? Why or why not?
8) Should the United States adopt a national referendum process that allows citizens to directly vote on important policies? Why or why not?
9) “It is hard to explain the place filled by political concerns in the life of an American. To take a hand in the government of society and to talk about it is his most important business and, so to say, the only pleasure he knows” (Alexis DeTocqueville). Is this true today? Why or why not? Does it matter if people refuse to participate in the political system? Why or why not?
11) Does the American government have too much power over the citizens? If yes, how so? How can that be changed? If no, then why not? Is the system working well as it is now?
12) “Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety” – Benjamin Franklin. Is he right today? Why or why not?
Would anyone care to help me out with some gov't/polysci stuff?
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks