Topic Papers should be 1-3 pages long, double spaced, one inch margins on all sides, using Times New Roman with 12pt font. Citations, reference page, and formatting should follow the APSA style guide linked below. There should be a minimum of two sources for your paper. Please make sure to adhere to the formatting and follow the rubric. Please attach a PDF version of your paper to the assignment topic paper 1 below.
Remember this a formal paper and should not use contractions in the paper or the word I.
Topic 1: Since the advent of polling, political scientists have found that Americans dont know much about the details of political issues or even the names of many leading politicians. Education is one distinguishing factor that separates the politically sophisticated from the unsophisticated, but, since education levels have increased over the last half-century, why hasnt Americans knowledge of politics increased? How does democracy survive given such low levels of political knowledge among Americans over time?
Topic 2: Some people argue that there are no significant differences between the two major parties. Backing up your perspective with appropriate sources, what are the major differences and similarities in the views of the Democratic and Republican parties (e.g., this review of party platforms, 1856-2016 washingtonpost.com/graphics/politics/2016-election/conventions/party-platform-evolution/)? What are the primary areas of difference between contemporary Democrats and Republicans? How are the two parties similar? What are the consequences of these patterns for voters and election outcomes? For policy outcomes?
