Contemporary conceptions of democracy in the United States are often based on the classic pluralist model of governance: individual citizens articulate interests, groups naturally form and lobby on behalf of those interests, a fair debate ensues, and the democratic system generates outcomes reflecting a general will. While this may serve as a model of how democracy ought to operate, it is not clear whether it is an accurate reflection of how our democracy actually operates. In this course, we will employ a multitude of approaches—theoretical, behavioral, and institutional—to assist you in assessing the extent to which the functioning of American democracy fulfills its promise. Collectively, we will grapple with our conflicting accounts of American Democracy, identify potential barriers we face, and debate the utility of potential reforms.
- Teacher: Justin Berry