Political Science 2310

Dr. Webking

Fall, 2008

Extra Credit Assignment

Write a paper on the following topic:

A presdential election will be held on November 4. Analyze the election in the following manner:

Explain the position the candidates are seeking (what is it, what are the responsibilities and authorities, etc ). Explain the relevant qualities that ought to be considered in filling the position. Explain who the major candidates are; what their qualifications are; what relevant experience they possess; and so on. Discuss thoroughly the issues that seem to be important in the campaign. Analyze the candidates' arguments, positions on the issues, and campaign presentations. To what degree is the campaign about the question of what are the relevant qualities that ought to be considered in distributing the job, and to what degree is there agreement on what the relevant qualiies are, but disagreement over the degree to which Senator Obama and Senator McCain possess thse qualities? Finally, if you choose to do so you may explain your preference among the candidates.

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NOTE: In this paper you are to express your own understanding of the topic based on your own research in newspapers, campaign materials, news broadcasts, magazines, Internet sites, etc. The paper is to be your own work and written in your own words. It must not be made up of long quotations or paraphrases from other materials. All quotations must be indicated with quotation marks and appropriate identification of sources. Students may discuss the topic and their findings in researching the race, but each paper is to be written independently. Students may not collaborate in writing their papers.

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In order to receive credit, a paper must be at least 1500 words in length (which is usually at least 5 pages typed, double-spaced). Shorter papers will receive no credit. Longer papers are encouraged.

If you choose to write a paper, your average for the course will be increased by one to five points, depending upon the quality of the paper. Or, if it is more helpful, when a paper earns 4 or 5 points, the grade for the lowest exam will not be used in calculating the final average.

Papers must be turned in by November 3.