American Government
Our political opinions and attitudes are acquired through our political socialization and public opinion polls capture that data. During this week’s discussion we will focus on how you acquired your political opinions.
There are three parts to this assignment. You must do ALL three to get full credit.
1. Chapter 6 lists the various ways we are politically socialized. Based on this list, what were the top three influences that shaped your political views and opinions. In other words, who (or what) taught you to see the world as you do? List your top three influences. Websites you use for information should be included.
2. Now look back on Lesson 1. Look at the Four Cornered Ideological Grid and where you fit . Discuss how you came about acquiring that ideology.
3. The two Documenting Hate videos discuss the rise of white supremacists in the United States. Please watch both videos and answer the following:
Name the author whose book, the Siege, provides the philosophical foundation for the present day Nazi movements. In an interview with Richard Rowley, what was his take on Trump’s election and it’s impact on the movement? In his opinion, how do we make America great again?
Discuss the historic pattern of the rise of Neo-Nazi/white supremacist/ Neo-Fascists as explained by Dr. Kathleen Belew from the University of Chicago.
What is your opinion on the content of the videos? Do you agree with the “Lone Wolf” theory? What is Kathleen Belew’s opinion of the “Lone Wolf theory?”
