Final Exam

Final Exam

This is your final exam, which is an essay question. I expect 3-5 pages with an in-depth answer,

based on what you have learned in this course. It is due the second-to-last class, before finals week.

And here it is:

Write a memo as if you were the advisor to the President. What social problem would you tell him to focus on as he begins his third year of term? What is the cause of that problem, and what are some solutions he might consider?

Keep it straightforward and clear, explaining your issue, cause and solution. You might, perhaps, explain a theoretical point of view or all of them (functionalist, conflict, or interactionist) on the specific problem, and tell him why you are choosing that point of view.

Keep in mind the cost/benefit practical side of politics, and how hard it is to get a consensus! It is also important to find an issue that will make the electorate listen, and be willing to spend time or money to solve. You may give him data that supports your solution or defines the problem.

You must be persuasive and clear! Remember, he has many issues to juggle, and you are trying to convince him that YOUR problem is the one that either most people want to solve, or that will benefit the nation in the short or long-run, and get the attention of the public to get the Congress behind him.

Please, double space your writing, put it in the form of a memo to your "boss", and write "FINAL" on the first page.

Good luck!