Poli Sci 140B Midterm: Question 4
Interpretation is rooted in what principles?
Desire to educate, sovereignty of the people, respect for public opinion
Illustrative example of an interpreter
Daniel Webster
Why was Daniel Webster important in the Nullification Crisis?
Defended the Union. Challenged the idea that the union was just an association of sovereign states and could be seceded from at will; gave a speech declaring that the union was much more - a government by and for the people that can be amended whenever the people choose
Illustrative example of a demagogue
Donald Trump
Why is the presidency uniquely suited to these forms of popular leadership?
Evolution of practices of presidential rhetoric: speeches directed to the people at large
How does Wilson define interpretation?
Process of "fathoming the people's desire" and explaining it to them in a convincing, easy-to-understand manner. Interpretation is "obedient to the permanent purposes of the public mind"
Why do we care?
Sheds light on the importance of reducing demagoguery in the presidential office. The founders feared that a demagogue in office will foment discord and division. Must choose presidents with demonstrated moral character and records of prior national service.
How does Wilson define demagoguery?
appeal to momentary and whimsical popular moods. Demagoguery "turns to the inclinations of the moment"
What was the Nullification Crisis?
result of southern states' resistance to imposed, protective tariffs on foreign goods to guard emerging industries. South Carolina threatened to secede over tariff
Demagoguery is rooted in what principles?
Desire to gain more personal power
What makes the presidency appealing to interpreters?
Speeches directed to the people enhance ability to educate, increase closeness to public opinion and ability to explain the people's desires
Illustrative example of evolution of presidential rhetoric?
State of the Union. Wilson's revival of appearing before Congress in person to give State of the Union / addressing speech to the PEOPLE, not to Congress
What makes Donald Trump a demagogue?
Played to racism ("Mexicans are rapists and drug dealers") and sexism ("nasty women") among other discriminatory sentiments latent among the people, made discrimination mainstream, fueled public hatred and fear to win. THEN incited an insurrection on Jan 6 as an attempt to stay in power (proves personal power motivation)
What makes the presidency appealing to demagogues?
Speeches create personal visibility and can even generate a cult like following -> extra visibility for ONE PERSON leads to consolidation of power.
