ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the roots and perpetuation of inequality in America and focuses on the ways that the system, to differing degrees throughout our history, has allowed relatively few to achieve economic, political, and social success. It explores the intersection of the government and interest groups and begins with unpack the complexities of the ways representation works in the United States. The chapter briefly considers some of the most important philosophical principles that guided the Framers as they envisioned a new nation—an experiment in democracy—and drafted a system that they hoped would foster those ideals. It describes characterizing James Madison's representation as substantive. The chapter also examines Madison's distinction between majority and minority faction. It also explores the importance of electing members of racial minority groups to public office and the related issue of voter turnout by and suppression of minorities.
