Reference no: EM133647464

Question

Much has been written on the negative impact of political polarization on American democracy. Of special concern is polarization rooted in distrust, dislike, and contempt between politicians and citizens across party lines. This form of polarization is referred to as "affective polarization." How have America's democratic institutions exacerbated affective polarization between Democrats and Republicans (mass public and/or political elites), and how might you redesign America's democratic institutions (such as the rules used in elections and/or institutional features of America's presidential system, or other institutional features) to encourage moderation and compromise? Be sure to explain how your redesign will reduce affective polarization and encourage compromise between supporters and/or elites of political parties. In your answer, focus on possible institutional changes, and you may draw from examples of institutions used in other democracies, including those we study in class.