Each student
will be given a character. Students will be asked to give their character’s
perspective regarding the following questions denoted with an asterisk:
*1. In the
article there is a quote from MSNBC talk show host Rachel Maddow. She says that
if she wants to boost her ratings she will highlight villainous behavior from
Republicans because that’s what her audience expects. She also says that conservative
talk shows do the same thing. How would your character react to this statement?
Example
Response: (Parent) A parent may be concerned that news coverage constantly
focuses on greed and overall bad behavior rather than highlighting charitable
acts and compromise.
*2. Both
liberals and conservatives employ their ‘message machines’ “to mobilize their bases and demonize their opponents.”
How have you or your character been affected by these ‘message machines?’
Personal
Response: I had a friend who worked for the Obama campaign and slowly recruited
a lot of our mutual friends to volunteer. She did this by inviting them to
events held on campus that had celebrities and free food to attract people. At
the events, the people who attended were informed of Obama’s policies.
*3. Nisbet
and Scheufele assert that the polarization of political parties has led the
public to despise government. This has ultimately hurt liberals because their
objectives involve big government. What is this type of polarization? Do you
believe this assertion? Would your character believe differently?
4. Politicians
are afraid to go against their party’s agenda for fear of being an outcast.
This polarization between parties was evident with the budget crisis. What
changes does American society have to make in order for politicians to feel
secure in making compromises?
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