Readings to do by Monday - Theories of Government

>>REQUIRED Dahl, "Who Governs"<< 

>>REQUIRED Video: Understanding Pluralism<<

>>REQUIRED Article: Overview of Pluralism<<

>>REQUIRED Article: Hyperpluralism<<

>>Optional Reading: "Kludgeocracy<<

>>Optional Reading: Public Choice, an Elite Theory<<

Don't be alarmed! These readings all amount to about the same number of pages as a chapter from the textbook.

Work Order: 

1. Read Dahl. This is an essential introduction to the theory of Pluralism.
2. Watch the video "Understanding Pluralism" I posted from YouTube. It provides an overview of Dahl book and presents an example of how the concept works. (Its about 3.5 minutes long, nice and short).
3. Read the Overview of Pluralism. With that overview in mind. This will clarify what Dahl is talking about.
4. Read the second article which presents the idea of "Hyperpluralism" -- the concept of pluralism at its extreme.

I've posted two optional readings as well. Each will help to expand on your understanding of both Public Choice (an Elite Theory) and Hyperpluralism. Note: if there ends up being a midterm question about Elite Theory, Pluralism, or Hyperpluralism, citing these optional readings can make your grade even better.

I am not going to give you an assignment for any of these readings, but I will expect you to have read them. Be advised that I might finally just choose people at random to answer questions about readings, and per the syllabus, I reserve the right to ask you to leave if you are obviously unprepared. With that in mind, if you don't understand something, write a question or two down while you read and ask me in class! Take notes on the readings! 

A key question to ask when you are done with the readings and video: which theory do you think is more applicable to American democracy-- Power Elite, which you read last time, or Pluralism? Or is hyperpluralism explanatory? 

Questions, email me.