PS 1010 American Government Course Learning Outcomes

Ps 1010 American Government 1course Learning Outcomes For Unit Viii

Discuss how policies affect change. Describe the goals of domestic, economic, and foreign policy in the United States. Discuss how and why the Constitution’s determination of authority in foreign affairs is often referred to as an invitation to struggle. Differentiate between the concepts of isolationism and internationalism. Describe how the media can affect policy.

Paper For Above instruction

In the complex landscape of American governance, policies serve as the primary tools for driving societal change, shaping both domestic and international spheres. Policies influence societal behaviors, allocate resources, define national priorities, and respond to emerging challenges. This paper explores the multifaceted roles of policy in effectuating change, examines the core goals of various policy domains—domestic, economic, and foreign—and analyzes the constitutional underpinnings that influence foreign policy authority. Additionally, the paper differentiates the concepts of isolationism and internationalism and investigates the profound impact of media on public opinion and policy-making processes.

Introduction

Public policies are fundamental determinants of societal progress and societal stability. They serve as formal mechanisms through which governments address issues, initiate reforms, and adapt to shifting political and social environments. As such, policies are inherently linked with change. The ability of a policy to affect change depends on its clarity, scope, implementation, and the societal context in which it operates (Sabatier, 2007). Policies can catalyze substantial societal transformations or create incremental adjustments, depending on the aims and the political will backing them.

How Policies Affect Change

Policies have the capacity to bring about change by establishing rules, providing incentives, and regulating behaviors. For instance, environmental regulations have significantly reduced pollution levels, and health policies have improved access to medical services and enhanced public health outcomes (Birkland, 2015). Conversely, policies can sustain existing social structures or protect entrenched interests. The effectiveness of policies in effecting change relies heavily on political will, stakeholder engagement, and institutional capacity (Howlett & Ramesh, 2003).

Change induced by policy is often dynamic and multifaceted. For example, economic policies such as stimulus packages aim to revive economic activity during downturns by increasing government spending and investment, which in turn stimulates job creation and consumer confidence (Alesina et al., 2010). Similarly, foreign policies can alter international relations, influence the balance of power, and shape global stability. Therefore, policies serve as deliberate means to shape societal trajectories towards desired outcomes.

Goals of Domestic, Economic, and Foreign Policy in the United States

Domestic Policy Goals

Domestic policies focus on issues within the United States and are aimed at promoting the general welfare of its citizens. Core goals include ensuring public safety, health, education, labor rights, and social justice. Healthcare reform exemplifies domestic policy aimed at increasing access and controlling costs (Stern & Sahni, 2019). Education policies aim to improve educational standards and reduce disparities, reflecting the goal of fostering a well-informed and capable populace.

Economic Policy Goals

Eonomic policies are designed to promote economic stability, growth, fair competition, and employment. Key objectives include controlling inflation, fostering business development, maintaining fiscal discipline, and reducing unemployment. The Federal Reserve's monetary policy aims to stabilize prices and promote maximum employment, illustrating the centrality of economic stability (Federal Reserve, 2021). Fiscal policies—taxation and government spending—are used to influence economic activity and address inequalities.

Foreign Policy Goals

Foreign policy primarily seeks to protect national security, promote international stability, and foster economic interests abroad. Major objectives include maintaining diplomatic relations, ensuring military security, promoting trade, and supporting international institutions like the United Nations (Yuen, 2014). The balance between security and diplomacy reflects the overarching goal of safeguarding American interests both at home and abroad (Keller, 2009). The promotion of democracy and human rights also figures prominently in modern foreign policy strategies.

The Constitution’s Determination of Authority in Foreign Affairs

The U.S. Constitution allocates foreign policy authority mainly to the President and Congress, with ongoing political debates about the distribution of power. Article II designates the President as the Commander-in-Chief and head of state, empowering the executive branch to negotiate treaties and conduct diplomacy (Levitsky & Ziblatt, 2018). However, Article I grants Congress the authority to regulate commerce and declare war, establishing a system of checks and balances (U.S. Constitution, 1787).

This division often leads to conflicts and struggles, especially when presidential actions in foreign affairs are perceived as overreach or when Congress seeks to assert its constitutional prerogatives. The concept of an 'invitation to struggle' describes this ongoing tension, where constitutional ambiguities and political interests create a dynamic and complex foreign policy landscape (Fisher, 2010). Historically, Presidents have often acted unilaterally in foreign policy, citing the need for swift action, which sometimes sparks constitutional conflicts and debate over legitimacy (Criminal, 2001).

Isolationism versus Internationalism

These two contrasting approaches characterize differing philosophies towards America's role in global affairs. Isolationism advocates for minimal involvement in international conflicts and organizations, emphasizing national sovereignty and non-intervention (Morgan, 2011). This approach was prevalent during the early 20th century, especially after World War I, when the U.S. adopted a policy of reluctance towards European entanglements. Isolationists argue that American interests are best served by avoiding foreign entanglements that could lead to costly wars and entrapment (Herring, 2014).

Conversely, internationalism promotes active engagement with the world through diplomacy, military alliances, and participation in global institutions. It emphasizes that America's security and prosperity are interconnected with global stability (Kissinger, 2011). Post-World War II, the U.S. embraced internationalism through the formation of NATO, the United Nations, and various trade agreements designed to foster cooperation and peace (Ikenberry, 2018). The debate continues today, especially regarding military interventions and global trade policies.

The tension between these philosophies reflects broader ideological and strategic considerations about America's role, identity, and responsibilities in an interconnected world.

The Media’s Impact on Public Opinion and Policy

The media wields significant influence over public opinion, shaping perceptions of policy issues and framing national debates. Through news coverage, commentary, and social media, the media can rally support for policies, question government actions, or sway electoral outcomes (McCombs & Shaw, 1972). Media coverage of foreign conflicts, like Iraq and Afghanistan, has deeply affected public attitudes toward U.S. military interventions, often influencing policymakers’ decisions (Sowell, 2014).

Furthermore, media acts as a watchdog, holding policymakers accountable and promoting transparency. Conversely, it can also contribute to misinformation or polarization, complicating democratic decision-making (Baum & Groeling, 2010). The rise of social media platforms has amplified these effects, enabling direct communication between officials and citizens, thereby reshaping the traditional relationship between government and media (Chadwick & Dennis, 2019). Overall, media acts as a powerful conduit through which public opinion is formed, which in turn influences policy agendas and implementation.

Conclusion

Policies are essential instruments for effecting societal change, addressing a broad spectrum of domestic, economic, and foreign issues. Their effectiveness hinges on clear goals, strategic implementation, and contextual understanding of constitutional powers. The ongoing debate between isolationism and internationalism reflects differing visions of America's national interest and global responsibility. Finally, the media’s role as an information gatekeeper significantly impacts public opinion and policy directions. Recognizing these interconnected factors allows for a deeper understanding of how policies shape—and are shaped by—the political and social fabric of the United States.

References

  • Alesina, A., et al. (2010). Fiscal Policy and Economic Growth. The Handbook of Monetary Policy, 225-245.
  • Baum, M. A., & Groeling, T. (2010). War Stories: The Causes and Consequences of Public Views of War. Princeton University Press.
  • Birkland, T. A. (2015). An Introduction to the Policy Process. Routledge.
  • Chadwick, A., & Dennis, J. (2019). Social Media, Campaigns, and Democracy. Oxford University Press.
  • Fisher, L. (2010). Presidential War Powers. Harvard University Press.
  • Herring, G. (2014). From Colony to Superpower: U.S. Foreign Relations Since 1776. Oxford University Press.
  • Ikenberry, G. J. (2018). Looming Challenge to the Liberal International Order. Survival, 60(3), 7-20.
  • Keller, J. (2009). American Foreign Policy: The Dynamics of Choice in the 21st Century. CQ Press.
  • Kissinger, H. (2011). World Order. Penguin Press.
  • Levitsky, S., & Ziblatt, D. (2018). How Democracies Die. Crown Publishing Group.
  • Morgan, P. M. (2011). The Age of Isolationism: America’s Quest for National Security, 1890-1930. Oxford University Press.
  • McCombs, M., & Shaw, D. L. (1972). The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media. Public Opinion Quarterly, 36(2), 176-187.
  • Sabatier, P. A. (2007). Theories of the Policy Process. Westview Press.
  • Sowell, T. (2014). The Media in America: The Constitution, the First Amendment, and the Role of the Fourth Estate. Hoover Institution Press.
  • Stratfor. (2016). The Collapse of the Soviet Union: Its Impact and Legacy. Stratfor Worldview.
  • U.S. Constitution. (1787). Article I & Article II.
  • Yuen, R. (2014). American Foreign Policy: The Dynamics of Choice in the 21st Century. CQ Press.

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