ABSTRACT

A Profile of the American Electorate takes an extensive look at the political foundations and behaviors of citizens, yesterday and today. Presenting decades of data on voter choice, voter turnout, and public opinion in a way that is clear and accessible for students of political science, the book uniquely emphasizes the importance of voting, socialization, and reform measures to enhance good citizenship. It explores how Americans become conservative or liberal, why some vote and others stay home, their knowledge of politics, how polarized the public has become, and the complex motivations behind their vote choices.

chapter 1|16 pages

Introduction

Some Politics Change, Some Voters Stay the Same

chapter 2|20 pages

Genesis

How Do People Become Liberals and Conservatives?

chapter 3|17 pages

Voter Choice

The Decision Is Simple, but Is It Predetermined?

chapter 4|16 pages

Political Knowledge

What Facts Do Voters Need to Know?

chapter 5|17 pages

Voter Turnout

Institutional Barriers and Group Motivations

chapter 6|20 pages

Polarization

How Bad Is It, and Is It Growing?

chapter 7|17 pages

Exploring Solutions

Policy Answers to a Better Citizenry

chapter 8|10 pages

Conclusion

Renewing American Citizenship