democracy in the U.S.? 

Barbara Kruger, 1991

Reading questions — written response required, 1-2 pages total

  1. The (6) readings and videos offer varied perspectives on the historical meanings of democracy in the U.S.  Discuss the different perspectives, how they compare and contrast.  Include your characterization of the point-of-view (POV) of the authors of each read/video.  What are your responses to this range of perspectives?
  2. In reading #5, “Equal Opportunity, Our National Myth,” Stiglitz outlines structural forces causing greater class inequality.  Declining government support for public education and child-rearing in under-resourced communities, alongside the privileges afforded youth from upper-income families is shutting down class mobility, i.e. access to the “American dream.”  In what ways if any, does this resonate with your lived experiences and observations?   

Readings

  1. Declaration of Independence, Preamble (1776).  First 5 paragraphs. 
  2. Gerald Horne interview. The Counter Revolution of 1776 and the Construction of Whiteness.   The Real News Network.  August 20, 2014.  [21.47]

  1. Steven Hanke.  On Democracy Versus Liberty.  Cato Institute, Jan. 20, 2011.
  2. Jesse Jackson.  Our System is Rigged So the Minority Can Rule.  Chicago Sun Times, January 29, 2021.  
  3. Joseph Stiglitz. Equal Opportunity, Our National Myth. New York Times. February 16, 2013.
  4. Rick Wolff. EconoMinute: Democratic Economic System, Oct 21, 2016 [2.48]

 

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