Activity 1.1.5: Outlining 1.

Thesis Statement: Despite the changes that our American government has experienced, the government is best explained by the elite theory because it acknowledges the small economically high standing minority who hold the most power. A. Our government has modeled the two other theories at one point in history, but the elite theory best addresses our current political affairs. Evidence: Elite theory of long ago, where only white men could vote and hold offices very similar today; pluralism of the Gilded Age where labor unions fought with corporations. Occupy Wall Street and the growing economic disparity and inequality are two other factors that point to elite theory. B. American politics is characterized by the elite theory because of the influence of having financial support (corporations and other economic institutions). Evidence: Politicians with the most money have the widest range for a target audience because they can reach the most people through campaigning, advertising, etc. Quote from Mills over how the power elite rule. C. Opposing elite theory, hyperpluralism and pluralism cannot sufficiently explain the American political process that we experience. Evidence: The American government lacks sufficient compromise and interest groups. D. Conclusion: Elite theory is the theory that most appropriately and effectively defines Americas political system presently.