American Political Culture & Other Jokes

Differences between Democrats and Republicans are increasingly blurred. While tactics may vary, the two parties share assumptions and goals. Big money dominates politics. Who runs and who gets elected is more often than not determined by the size of their campaign treasure chests. Corporations and PACs, political action committees, make large contributions to candidates of both parties. Lobbyists and their checkbooks wield enormous influence and power. And what about the people? Well, they respond to a perceived lack of choice by dropping out. Fed by media bread and circuses, apathy and cynicism abound. The U.S. has the lowest rate of voter participation of any industrialized country.

Recorded at the University of Colorado at Boulder.