I wonder how many Bentley students voted in the past presidential election; no matter what the exact number, I would place money on the fact that a far more number of students voted in the 2008 election than the 2004 one. But why did people finally see the light? What was it that made them realize that the event that happened just once every four years actually is important and should be taken more seriously? Was it because of our current economy downfall, or was it because this year, it was the popular thing to do?
“The Australian ballot shifted the center of political gravity from party to voter. Voting changed from a social and public duty to private right…” In his essay, Click Here for Democracy, Michael Schudson goes through the history of American elections. From a time when only the elite, white men could vote, to a time when it wasn’t about the person you voted for, but rather the cause they supported - to the present when campaigns need to be established to force people to vote. At a time when information is at one’s fingertips and one can know everything they need to know to make an informed decision, why is it that so many people simply don’t vote?
Many people vote for a number of reasons, but it’s only the people who have a passion for politics that truly study and research the beliefs, policies and history of the candidates. It seemed like many people were voting for President Obama because he was obviously the more popular choice. It’s not a flaw in people, it’s a characteristic and a part of people - to make choices and decisions based on the opinion of the majority. I asked many of my fellow Bentley students who they were voting for in the last election, but that was the easy question. The hard question was WHY? Many students were at a loss for words; and then I thought of the Bentley Class Cabinet elections, and elections is a debatably term. Nothing is more of a popularity contest than class elections. I honestly doubt that a single student asked a potential candidate what they hoped to achieve if they were elected. It didn’t matter how smart the student was, all that matter was that their name was well known and that their poster stood out from the rest.
In no past election has the role of the media and the role of celebrity play more of a role than in the ’09 election. Obama wasn’t a Senator, but rather he became a celebrity; for good or bad is yet to be seen. But at least this past election forced people, ones that normally don’t vote, to get out there and let their choice be heard.
Did you vote? If not, why did you allow for someone else to make one of the most important decisions of your life, all of our lives, to others? I just don’t understand why people who are old enough and American citizens, make the choice not to vote. I understand the old argument that “I’m only one vote; it won’t actually make a difference.” But imagine if everyone thought this. What if it was left for just the few, most determined people to vote? Would you let a small group of complete strangers make the choices that impact every aspect of our life?
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I think a lot of people don't vote simply because they feel their vote doesn't count. In the past, the elections were more like social events than anything else so it persuaded citizens to attend. They were also much more corrupt (kinda hard to believe). But with such a drastic change like Obama being in office, I feel even if a small percentage of the population turns out at the polls, the feeling and mentality of citizens will shift for the better.
ReplyDeleteIt's really interesting to look not only at why people don't vote, but why they do vote. Is it really some sort of victory to achieve higher voter turnout when many of those people casting the ballots don't really know their own motivations? It's sad that so many if our peers, at Bentley and beyond, settle into a voting pattern that they don't really understand. Perhaps someday voting will require more self-awareness. We should petition to make the voting essay format rather than multiple choice ;-).
ReplyDeleteIts really interesting to see how democracy started out with illiterates and spread to what is known as todays literate world. I think that inc ertain circumstances it would be better if there were a group of people who voted on behalf of the entire country because for developing countries like Pakistan, a democracy would never work. It is due to the high illiteracy rate that a democracy either doesnt work, or does not make a difference. Thus, depending on each nation a democracy should be formed. As for America, I believe that it truly is a popularity contest on t.v. for who appears to be better.
ReplyDelete"It’s not a flaw in people, it’s a characteristic and a part of people - to make choices and decisions based on the opinion of the majority. I asked many of my fellow Bentley students who they were voting for in the last election, but that was the easy question. The hard question was WHY?" I really like this statement you made because it is so true. I myself would say I am not very interested in politics and while I know some of what Obama stands for, I voted for him because he was a symbol of hope for the future and for change. I would not say I made my decision solely based on his stances on issues. Yet, like you said many people go with the majority.
ReplyDelete"In no past election has the role of the media and the role of celebrity play more of a role than in the ’09 election. Obama wasn’t a Senator, but rather he became a celebrity; for good or bad is yet to be seen." I really liked this line, because it did bring an important idea to the front. In this election, i also agree that a lot of people based their choice on things which may have no bearing when it comes to being president. Good job.
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