American Democracy Now, 2nd Edition (Harrison)

Chapter 8: Political Parties

Learning Objectives

Having studied this chapter, students should be able to do each of the following:

1. Identify the functions political parties perform.
2. Explain the three components of political parties.
3. Compare and contrast Democrats and Republicans.
4. Describe the organization of U.S. political parties.
5. Trace the historical development of U.S. political parties.
6. Explain the reasons for two-party domination in the U.S.
7. Evaluate whether political parties are in decline or resurgence.
8. Assess the impact of third parties on U.S. electoral politics.
9. Assess the effect of new ideologies and technology on both parties.