AMERICAN FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

Select one topic for you to develop and remember to use the simulation to assist in applying the concepts and ideas expressed in the chapters.

• Chapter 9: Why is sociological representation important? If congressional representatives have racial, religious, or educational backgrounds similar to their constituents, are they better representatives? Why or why not?
• Chapter 10: Most Americans in the 1930s and 1940s did not know that President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was severely handicapped from polio and had to use a wheelchair, just as many in the 1960s did not know that John F. Kennedy had extramarital affairs while in the White House. Journalists at the time censored themselves due to respect for the office and the man. Which is better: not knowing very much or knowing a lot about the personal lives of presidents? Does what happens in a politician’s life affect his or her ability to govern? Have our most effective presidents also been the most exemplary? Explain.
• Chapter 11: As governments downsize, they often contract with private companies to perform what was once considered to be the traditional work of government. What are the advantages and disadvantages of privatizing jails, public schools, military aircraft maintenance, state welfare agencies, and state employment agencies?

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