Megan Finley
Thank you for visiting my capstone page! Here I'll talk about my capstone research as well as my plans post-graduation.
Megan Finley (she/her)
Felon Voting Rights and Public Opinion
Abstract
As we near the upcoming presidential election, campaign platforms and public discussion bring issues such as Felon voting rights to the forefront of media outlets. But as debates generate controversy and state policies are questioned, many of those who are most affected by this issue are least likely to have a say in who will represent their interests. Using a survey to sample public opinion on this topic, I asked the general population whether or not they view the removal of an individual’s right to vote as a just punishment for felony conviction. Sociologists have done extensive research on the way society defines crime and criminals and through collecting public opinion I have investigated the way a contemporary sample of public opinion on felon voting rights relates to current policies on this issue and why. I found that while a majority of respondents were in favor of individuals with felony convictions keeping the right to vote, those who did not were more likely to be white and/or republican and less likely to know someone convicted of a felony. I argue, therefore, that our perceptions of crime and opinions on punishment are often tied to our position and experiences in society.
Post-Graduation Plans
I will be working at a law firm and coaching volleyball while applying for law school.
Majors/Minor
Sociology and Political Science Major
Hispanic Studies Minor
What I Love About Sociology
The thing I enjoyed the most about my sociology major was knowing that every time I went to class or was assigned a reading I would be encouraged to look at the world around me from a new perspective.
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank my family for their support of me and my interests over the past four years. In particular my parents, who were admirably patient with me every time they asked me about my classes and received a 20 minute lecture on what the patriarchy has ruined this time. And my grandparents who have placed so much significance on my education and were always there when I needed them. I would also like to thank my housemates, teammates, coaches, and friends who made PLU feel like home and my professors and classmates who inspired me and encouraged me to learn.