Elected by the People

 Why do we vote the way we do? This series will examine this question as we examine the practice of politics in America today. We will discuss the separation of morality and politics, starting with Machiavelli in 16th century Italy. Do we tend to vote for candidates today for their perceived ethics or for our own economic reasons? What role should religion play in government? What values or policies do conservatives and liberals believe they are voting for when they vote for one party or another? In this way, we will try to understand political slogans and pitches as politicians try to convince us to vote for them. 

Readings:

The Prince, Niccolo Machiavelli

Why Americans Hate Politics, E. J. Dionne, Jr.

What’s the Matter With Kansas? Thomas Frank

Our Endangered Values, Jimmy Carter