Instructions: Please write an essay responding to the topic described below. Your essay should be between three and five full pages in length, double-spaced, in 12-point, Times New Roman font. Do your best to address each of the questions listed below. You will be graded on the level of detail and comprehensiveness of your paper, and your comprehension and incorporation of concepts discussed in the assigned readings. Please be sure to proofread your work before submission: points will be deducted for egregious spelling and grammatical errors. No outside references are required. If you choose to use any non-assigned material, it must be properly cited. Failure to properly adhere to these instructions will result in a diminished grade (so please, read the instructions carefully!). Exams submitted past the due date will be penalized by 10% for each day that they are late.
Any instances of academic dishonesty will result in a failing grade in the course, and possible disciplinary action from the Dean of Students’ Office. Students with any questions as to what actions may constitute academic dishonesty should consult the Wayne State University Student Code of Conduct, which can be found at https://doso.wayne.edu/conduct/academic-misconduct
Provide a detailed answer to the following topic:
The United States Constitution established a formal representative democracy, but also created various institutions that limited the role of popular majorities in political decision-making. How has popular participation in politics expanded in the US over the last two centuries? In what ways is the US more democratic than it was at the time of its founding? What are the political consequences of the continued existence of institutions like the Senate and Electoral College, and practices such as gerrymandering, judicial review, and first-past-the-post elections? Would the United States benefit from abolishing any of these institutions and practices? What might be the potential drawbacks to doing so? If these institutions and practices were abolished, what might be some alternatives? Is the United States democratic enough, or would more direct citizen participation in the political process benefit the country?
In your response, be sure to clearly describe the ways in which the above institutions limit the power of popular majorities. As always, I am interested to hear your opinions, but please be sure to also demonstrate your understanding of the topic, and of the arguments for-and-against increased popular influence over political outcomes in the United States.
Please submit your essay on Canvas as either a PDF or Word Document. I will not accept essays submitted in any other format.
