Philosophy Adri due 21 sept. This assignment has four parts.
1) Madison warned about factions in Federalist No. 10. Think about your own community (school, workplace, neighborhood, or online group). Have you seen factions or cliques form? How do they influence decisions, either positively or negatively? Justify your answer.
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2) The framers wrote these documents over 200 years ago. Which principle from Federalist No. 10 or No. 51 feels the most relevant to problems you see in the U.S. (or in your community) today? Which one feels less relevant? Explain with a concrete example.
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3) Evaluate president Jackson’s Presidency. What political conflicts did he face? What are your thoughts on his attempts to resolve these conflicts? How should history judge Jackson as a president? Research at least 2 academic sources, (other than your textbook) and make sure you cite your sources using APA format. Your response should be in 2-3 paragraphs.
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Question #1: Groups and Interests
The theory of “pluralism” holds that interest groups should be allowed relatively free reign to influence elected representatives (excepting outright bribery and the like). On this theory interest groups help to facilitate democratic decisions because they make elected officials aware of different groups’ demands and compete to shape public policy. Does this theory make sense to you? If so, explain why interest groups are important. If not, explain why our current system with so many interest groups fail to adequately shape public policy to reflect the beliefs and needs of the American electorate. You are also free to adopt a middle ground and speak to the strengths and weaknesses of the pluralist theory. As always, try to support your arguments with specific examples of policy areas where interest groups have a beneficial or detrimental impact.
Question #2: Congress
The reading this week discusses two ideals of representation: Delegate and Trustee. These ideals envision very different roles for elected representatives and voters. In the delegate ideal, members of Congress are elected to represent the beliefs of their constituents, regardless of whether they think their constituents’ beliefs are well informed. In the trustee ideal, members of Congress are elected to represent the best interests of their constituents, regardless of whether their constituents agree with what the member thinks is in their best interest
Which ideal do you think should be followed? In your discussion be sure to highlight the strengths of the ideal that you have chosen. Also, be sure to discuss why the weaknesses of your chosen ideal are outweighed by its strengths. Finally, think about a specific policy issue and discuss why it would be better for members of Congress to follow your chosen ideal.
