American Politics Day 2

Political Behavior

August 2001

Answer TWO OF THE FOLLOWING QUESTIONS

1. During the last decade, several books appeared with titles such as The Rational Public,The Reasoning Voter, and Reasoning and Choice. These works seem to indicate a liuulumental shift in the way political scientists view the rationality and political sophistication of the average voter. Describe and critically evaluate this shift with respect to American public opinion. Apply your answer to an analysis of public opinion on at Ica,t one contemporary political issue or other topic of importance.

2. In recent years, a chorus of candidates, pundits, and political scientists has proclaimed that, when it comes to voting behavior, "It's the Economy, Stupid!" Evaluate this claim. Are economic conditions and assessments the most important determinants of the vote? If so, which economic considerations should political scientists hoping to understand voting behavior pay attention lo? If there are other factors beyond the economy, what are thevl Apply your analysis to voting behavior in the 2000 Presidential election.

3. After a 30-year decline in voter turnout since the 1960 election, turnout increased to 55% in 1992, dropped below 50% in 1960, and rose to just over 50% in 2000. Assess the trends is voter turnout during this period, addressing alternative explanations from the literature. Should these levels -- and their patterns over time -- cause concern for the health of American democracy?

4. Describe and evaluate the importance of media effects in shaping public opinion and individual vote choice. Do different kinds of media differ in their effects? Do different types of voters respond differently to media messages? Do media effects vary across different electoral contexts and or public opinion domains''