The last two presidential elections, 2000 and 2004,

were incredibly close and divisive. America appears to be polarized between “two massive colliding forces. One is rural, Christian, religiously conservative. [The other] is socially tolerant, pro-choice, secular, living in New England and the Pacific coast.” The manifestation of this division is seen everywhere in the form of a map of the United States colored blue and red: battle lines have been drawn in this new 21^st century war. But is this political atmosphere really any different than in the past? There have been other close elections and certainly America has split over other issues of great importance (slavery, federal power). So what is really at the heart of today’s political and ideological controversy?

This question is only one of many questions we will examine over the course of the semester. We will not only try to flesh out the issues, but we will also try to come up with solutions. Some of the areas we will explore are

- the nature of political parties and ideologies
- how government works from the Federal level to the local level
- ways to get involved in politics
- the role of money, the media, and special interests in modern politics

You will also give a series of topical presentations over controversial issues concerning social change and public policy, such as gun control, capital punishment, abortion, and immigration. Respect of classmates and their views is paramount to the success of the class structure.

What is required:

1. First and foremost is a good attitude and sensitivity to other’s feelings and beliefs.
Disrespect will not be tolerated.

2. Participation, participation, participation! A large part of your grade will be based on
your level of participation in class discussions, presentations, and group
projects.

3. Not only will your grade depend on participation, there will be tests, research
assignments, homework, maybe a debate, a paper or two, and a final project involving
a political or social issue.

4. You must be prepared at the beginning of each class. What this means is that all your
assigned reading will be done, homework will be completed, and you will be awake
and ready to…you guessed it… participate. I come ready each and every day and I
expect the same from you!

5. Bring a writing implement and paper. A folder to hold handouts is also a must. You
need to bring your text to each class as well. We might not always use it, but you never
know. A jump drive to store assignments on is also required.

6. You are responsible for getting and completing all missed assignments. Make sure to
check the syllabus on-line for the most up-to-date information. The syllabus can be
found on (www.political- action.blogspot.com). I can also be contacted
at home (968-0191) or you can e-mail me at mbrunton@sasweb.org. I am not a mind-
reader, so if you are having problems or have a question, please contact me.

7. All late or missed assignments will result in a lowered grade. One full letter grade for
each day late and a zero for missed assignments.

8. Have fun and learn!