If you are my student you will have noticed that both 2305 and 2306 classes begin with set of slides titled "Why do I have to take this class?" and that the basic answer provided is that it is a rational public is expected to provide a strong foundation for a republic. Ideally that's what we'll be able to accomplish this semester: To turn you into a rational participant if the political process.
Not to be rude, but studies suggest that will be a tall order.
Click here for older stories that touch on the degree of rationality in the American public.
What you'll see are stories that touch on the level of ignorance in the American public, as well as the tendency of people to overestimate their knowledge of current events. This should give us pause when we continually criticize Congress. Maybe they are more representative than we think.
