Problem 1: Even in a presidential election, only about 60 percent of eligible adults exercise their right to vote. What are the consequences of a low voter turnout? Does it have any possible benefits? How would policies and leaders change in America if the poorer segments of society became politically mobilized and began to vote in large numbers?
Problem 2: The United States was born from a revolution, and many historical changes were instituted through protest politics (e.g., women's suffrage and civil rights). Yet, the large majority of Americans disapprove of political protests and demonstrations as a form of participation. Why is this the case? What are the implications of this attitude for fringe groups in the political system?
Problem 3: Why is voter turnout higher in countries where political conflict is organized along class lines than in the United States, where it is focused on rival candidates with similar agendas? Discuss this pattern as a larger explanation for the nature of American politics.