This text presents an original argument about the nature of democracy in American society. It explores a political process it claims is out of touch with everyday needs and concerns of American citizens. Instead of focusing on polls and election results, David Thelen looks at Americans through their calls and letters to congressmen in which citizens define for themselves the issues they want to raise and the ways they want to be seen and heard. Thelen argues that the self-referential world of politics and journalism during elections excludes the concerns and voices of Americans, resulting in lower voter turnouts and increased voter apathy.
- ISBN10 0226794709
- ISBN13 9780226794709
- Publish Date 1 October 1996
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 28 February 2001
- Publish Country US
- Imprint University of Chicago Press
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 256
- Language English