GOVT1000 Introduction to Political Analysis and Institutions S2_2020/21
Assignment
(Answer BOTH Questions)
Your response should be a short essay between 800 – 1350 words. This essay should be referenced properly using the APA style and should include in-text citations and a bibliography [not included in word count] (Each response is worth 25 marks)
1. Evaluate the following quote: “Let us never forget that government is ourselves and not an alien power over us. The ultimate rulers of our democracy are not a President and senators and congressmen and government officials, but the voters of this country.” Franklyn D. Roosevelt
a) What is the relationship between voting and democracy? [4 marks]
b) In what ways other than voting can people participate in the political process?
Identify and explain two strengths and two weaknesses of each kind of
activity? [6 marks]
c) Are scholars right to be concerned that several countries in the world are
facing a ‘participation crisis? Explain your point of view. [6 marks]
d) In your conclusion, evaluate the extent to which compulsory voting and
lowering the voting age may be the best ways to improve participation in democracies. [5 marks]
e) Grammar, Spelling, formatting [4 marks]
2. Using a Caribbean country of your choosing, evaluate the importance of interest groups for representative democracies.
a) Why do interest groups exist? What are their functions? [4 marks]
b) In what ways do interest groups increase representation and in what ways do they decrease representation? [6 marks]
c) In your conclusion, analyse how you believe trade unions may complement or undermine political parties and the institutional channels for political decision-
making? Are they too powerful? [12 marks]
d) Grammar, Spelling, formatting [3 marks]
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