An apparent and striking observation that has been noted in virtually all of our readings by far is the shocking extent to which America's low-income citizens are denied of an equal status, let alone any, a political representation. Dahl reminds us frequently that the moral foundation behind America's constitution is that all humans have the same intrinsic worth and for this reason every person should be granted an opportunity to enjoy equal voice and representation in the political institution. Why then, we must ask ourselves, is no one listening to poor Americans'? I believe that the answer to this question requires focusing on two distinct problems: why is no one listening to them, and why aren't they speaking up? The latter question was examined in detail by Sydney Verba and his most resounding response looks at lack of education, which he claims fosters political activity "through its effect on information, skills, values, resources, networks, and more."
[...] He noted that increasing costs in political campaigns since the 1950s have resulted in the “reliance of elected officials on people who can afford to help finance their bids for re-election.” However, he also found that families with incomes below $15,000 accounted for only of total campaign contributions, and similarly the ASPA Task Force found that in 1990 such families only accounted for of total contributions. This raises the problem that politicians have a clear incentive to weigh more heavily the concerns of those who will help keep them in office. [...]
[...] Inequality in America An apparent and striking observation that has been noted in virtually all of our readings thus far is the shocking extent to which America's low- income citizens are denied equal, let alone any, political representation. Dahl reminds us frequently that the moral foundation behind America's constitution is that all humans have the same intrinsic worth, and for this reason every person should be granted the opportunity to enjoy equal voice and representation in our political institution. Why then, we must ask ourselves, is no one listening to poor Americans? [...]
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