The basic principle of democratic theory that I think is most important is the elite and class theory. This theory states that "societies are divided along class lines and that an upper-class elite will rule, regardless of the formal niceties of governmental organization"(pg 16 Edwards book). I believe that this theory is most important because it is the most accurate. Despite how hard we try, there is a huge gap between the poor and the rich. The rich can also use their popularity to control the media and persuade minds. The poor cannot always get the education needed to be in politics. Not to mention that presidential candidates spend tons of money on their campaigns. This is the most important theory because it is true that the rich have more say when it comes to politics and getting people to listen to them than the poor because the poor don't have necessary resources to gain a following.
While I agree that the elite and class theory is important throughout our democracy today, I personally think that the pluralist theory is most important. The pluralist theory is defined as a theory that states that groups with shared interests influence public policy by pressing their concerns through organized efforts. Because of open access to various institutions of government and public officials, organized groups can compete with one another for control over policy, and yet no one group or set of groups dominates. If it wasn't for the constant push and pull between certain group, we wouldn't have some of the groups we have today like the National Rifle Association, The National Organization for Women and the United Auto Workers. These groups and many more, have pushed for certain laws and policies to be entered which in turn has changed the way we live. Without this competition, the same group and people would be making the laws forever. (Edwards 15)
The basic principle of democracy that I personally think is most important is the hyperpluralist theory. This theory states that the interests of the groups involved in policymaking conflict so much, that it impedes the development of policy. This renders the government unable to do it's job, because of the constant disagreements between groups. This ineffectiveness and hyper pluralist theory has been present many times in recent years and is becoming increasingly important. One example of the hyperpluralist theory being shown in recent years was the government shut down in October 2013. The shutdown was caused by disagreeing groups on the policy of important subjects such as the Affordable Care Act, in the federal budget. Groups were so conflicted over the budget and which groups deserve more money, that the government shut down and was ineffective. (huffingtonpost.com) This theory is important to note because it is the most recent and modern theory that has been dictating American politics. We need to be aware of hyperpluralism and remember that despite many efforts, not all legislation will be effectively carried.
I agree with Sydney that the hyperpluralist theory is the most important also because the two political groups have been increasingly attacking each other for political gains. Almost all of the presidential candidates have put down the other party for political advancement which only increases the conflict and distrust. (Study.com)
The basic principle of democratic theory that I think is most important is the elite and class theory. This theory states that "societies are divided along class lines and that an upper-class elite will rule, regardless of the formal niceties of governmental organization"(pg 16 Edwards book). I believe that this theory is most important because it is the most accurate. Despite how hard we try, there is a huge gap between the poor and the rich. The rich can also use their popularity to control the media and persuade minds. The poor cannot always get the education needed to be in politics. Not to mention that presidential candidates spend tons of money on their campaigns. This is the most important theory because it is true that the rich have more say when it comes to politics and getting people to listen to them than the poor because the poor don't have necessary resources to gain a following.
ReplyDeleteWhile I agree that the elite and class theory is important throughout our democracy today, I personally think that the pluralist theory is most important. The pluralist theory is defined as a theory that states that groups with shared interests influence public policy by pressing their concerns through organized efforts. Because of open access to various institutions of government and public officials, organized groups can compete with one another for control over policy, and yet no one group or set of groups dominates. If it wasn't for the constant push and pull between certain group, we wouldn't have some of the groups we have today like the National Rifle Association, The National Organization for Women and the United Auto Workers. These groups and many more, have pushed for certain laws and policies to be entered which in turn has changed the way we live. Without this competition, the same group and people would be making the laws forever. (Edwards 15)
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ReplyDeleteThe basic principle of democracy that I personally think is most important is the hyperpluralist theory. This theory states that the interests of the groups involved in policymaking conflict so much, that it impedes the development of policy. This renders the government unable to do it's job, because of the constant disagreements between groups. This ineffectiveness and hyper pluralist theory has been present many times in recent years and is becoming increasingly important. One example of the hyperpluralist theory being shown in recent years was the government shut down in October 2013. The shutdown was caused by disagreeing groups on the policy of important subjects such as the Affordable Care Act, in the federal budget. Groups were so conflicted over the budget and which groups deserve more money, that the government shut down and was ineffective. (huffingtonpost.com) This theory is important to note because it is the most recent and modern theory that has been dictating American politics. We need to be aware of hyperpluralism and remember that despite many efforts, not all legislation will be effectively carried.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Sydney that the hyperpluralist theory is the most important also because the two political groups have been increasingly attacking each other for political gains. Almost all of the presidential candidates have put down the other party for political advancement which only increases the conflict and distrust. (Study.com)
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