1. Why were parties once seen as threats to the social order? If that is the case, why are they so pervasive today?
2. How do political parties deal with the problem of ambition? Apply this concept to the current electoral scene.
3. In what was do parties influence government? Look at the current political environment and provide examples.
4. What distinguishes the typical Republican from the Typical Democrat? Use examples from the United States and Texas.
5. Detail the primary system in the state of Texas. To what degree do political parties dominate politics in Texas? Is it possible for someone who is not a member of a party to have political influence?
6. Outline the changes in the party system over time in the United States.
7. Outline the changes in the party system over time in Texas.
8. Why is it difficult for third parties to be competitive?
9. What are the sources of party strength? Are they getting stronger or weaker?
10. Analyze the positions of each of the candidates for the presidency and determine whether they reflect the typical positions taken by their party.
