Political scientists have developed a new statistical model that accurately predicts election outcomes, revealing fresh insights about American democracy. The model accounts for multiple "known unknowns" that influence elections, generating more accurate probabilities and uncovering patterns in congressional elections over the past six decades. The researchers also explore important issues such as redistricting, registration, and voting rules, and the responsiveness of legislators to the public. Discover how this innovative approach challenges traditional forecasting models and provides a deeper understanding of American democracy.

What causes political polarization? A new study shows that people who share a political ideology have more similar 'neural fingerprints' of political words and process new information in similar ways. Discover how the brain receives and processes new information to create ideological stories, shedding light on political polarization.

Pablo Neruda was a celebrated poet of the 20th century who became famous for his accessible and controversial poems. He published his first collection of poems at the age of 19 and went on to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. Neruda's poems often used straightforward language and everyday experiences to create a lasting impact. He wrote about appreciation for everyday objects and subtleties of love and enchantment. Neruda's work also touched on political strife and a poet's responsibility to speak out against injustice. Despite struggling financially, he took a series of diplomatic jobs in different countries and even saved 2,000 refugees during the Spanish Civil War. Neruda's lines are recited at protests and marches worldwide, making him an influential figure in both the literary and political spheres. By exploring Neruda's poetry, students can gain a deeper understanding of the power of language and the importance of standing up for what they believe in.

Can political discourse survive the culture wars? Philosopher Agnes Callard explores how Socratic politics can depoliticize arguments and free our speech. Discover the dangers of self-politicization and the tragedy of those who lack the freedom to inquire. Learn how to distinguish between coercive and illuminating persuasion and why not bullying is harder than it appears. Join the conversation on how we can best live together in a politically charged climate.

Fahrenheit 451 is a novel that imagines a world where books are banned, and possessing them is forbidden. The protagonist, Montag, is responsible for destroying what remains. However, as he burns books day after day, Montag's mind occasionally wanders to the contraband that lies hidden in his home. Gradually, he begins to question the basis of his work. Fahrenheit 451 depicts a world governed by surveillance, robotics, and virtual reality. Dystopian fiction amplifies troubling features of the world around us and imagines the consequences of taking them to an extreme. In many dystopian stories, the government imposes constrictions onto unwilling subjects. But in Fahrenheit 451, Montag learns that it was the apathy of the masses that gave rise to the current regime. Fahrenheit 451 is a portrait of independent thought on the brink of extinction - and a parable about a society that is complicit in its own combustion. Learning about dystopian fiction can help students understand the importance of independent thought, creativity, and individuality in a world that values conformity.

Politics is everywhere. It affects the way we live, work, and interact with others. And if you're interested in understanding the power dynamics that shape our world, then Political Science is the perfect field of study for you. Political Science is a social science that deals with the study of government, politics, and public policy. It's a fascinating field that combines history, philosophy, economics, and sociology to help us understand how governments work, how policies are made, and how power is distributed. In Political Science, you'll learn about the different forms of government, from democracies to dictatorships, and how they function. You'll explore the role of political institutions, such as parliaments, courts, and the media, and how they influence policy decisions. You'll also examine the impact of globalization, international relations, and human rights on political systems. One of the most exciting aspects of Political Science is the research and innovation that takes place in the field. From studying the impact of social media on political campaigns to analyzing the effectiveness of different voting systems, Political Science is constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges. Some of the most well-known academic figures in Political Science include Francis Fukuyama, who famously wrote about the "end of history," and Robert Putnam, who coined the term "social capital" to describe the networks of trust and cooperation that underpin successful societies. At the undergraduate level, Political Science majors typically take courses in political theory, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. You can also specialize in areas such as political economy, environmental politics, or human rights. With a degree in Political Science, you'll be well-prepared for a range of careers in the public and private sectors. You could work in government, as a policy analyst, diplomat, or elected official. Or you could work in the private sector, as a lobbyist, consultant, or analyst for a think tank. Some of the most notable employers in this field include the United Nations, the World Bank, and major political parties around the world. To succeed in Political Science, you'll need to be curious, analytical, and passionate about social justice. You should also have strong writing and research skills, as well as an ability to think critically about complex issues. If you're ready to explore the fascinating world of politics and policy, then Political Science is the perfect field of study for you.

Mikhail Gorbachev, the former Soviet President, is remembered in the West as the man who ended the Cold War, but in the East as the destroyer of Russia as a world power. Learn about the two sides of Gorbachev's legacy and how it impacted the world.

Are you interested in politics and have a passion for making a difference? If so, you may want to consider a career in Political Campaign Management. This field is all about strategizing, organizing, and executing successful political campaigns that can change the world. As a Political Campaign Manager, you will be responsible for developing and implementing a winning campaign strategy for your candidate. This includes everything from fundraising, building a strong team, and developing a message that resonates with the voters. You will be in charge of creating a campaign that connects with the people and helps your candidate win the election. One of the most appealing aspects of this role is the opportunity to work on campaigns that can make a real difference in people's lives. For example, you could work on a campaign that advocates for better healthcare, environmental protection, or social justice. The possibilities are endless, and the impact can be enormous. The duties of a Political Campaign Manager can vary depending on the size of the campaign and the level of the office being sought. However, some typical duties include managing the campaign budget, organizing events, coordinating with volunteers, and overseeing the candidate's schedule. There are also many areas of specialization within this field, such as fundraising, digital marketing, and grassroots organizing. To become a Political Campaign Manager, you will need a strong educational background in political science, communications, or a related field. Popular undergraduate programs and majors include Political Science, Public Policy, and Communications. Additionally, many Political Campaign Managers have experience working on political campaigns or in related fields such as public relations or advertising. Helpful personal attributes for this career include strong communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and a passion for politics and social issues. You should also be comfortable working long hours and be willing to travel frequently. Job prospects for Political Campaign Managers are good, with many opportunities available in both the public and private sectors. Some notable potential employers include political parties, advocacy groups, and consulting firms. Additionally, there are many opportunities to work on international campaigns and make a difference on a global scale. In conclusion, if you are passionate about politics and want to make a difference in the world, a career in Political Campaign Management may be right for you. With the opportunity to work on campaigns that can change people's lives, this field offers an exciting and rewarding career path.

Is social media a tool for social cohesion or social division? Learn from Annenberg School for Communication Associate Professors Sandra González-Bailón and Yphtach Lelkes as they take stock of the existing studies and reveal what we know to date. Discover how social media affects our networks, public discourse, and political contexts, and how toxic language and hostility dominate social platforms. Explore the positive and negative effects of social media on social cohesion and polarization, and how policy changes can improve the situation.

Are you interested in politics? Do you have a passion for strategy, communication, and leadership? If so, Political Campaign Management may be the perfect field of study for you! Political Campaign Management is the art and science of running political campaigns, from local elections to national campaigns. It involves developing and executing a winning strategy, managing a team, and communicating effectively with voters. Political Campaign Managers are the masterminds behind successful political campaigns, and they play a crucial role in shaping the future of our society. In Political Campaign Management, you'll learn about the latest research, innovations, and academic discourse in the field. You'll study the strategies and tactics used by successful campaigns, and you'll learn from well-known academic figures who have made significant contributions to the field. For example, you might study the work of David Axelrod, who helped Barack Obama win the presidency in 2008 and 2012, or the research of Dr. Shanto Iyengar, who has studied the impact of media on political campaigns. At the undergraduate level, you'll typically take courses in Political Science, Communications, and Marketing. You'll learn about topics such as campaign finance, polling, message development, and voter mobilization. After graduation, you might specialize in a particular area, such as digital marketing or grassroots organizing. There are many potential career paths for graduates of Political Campaign Management. You might work on a political campaign as a Campaign Manager, Communications Director, or Field Organizer. You could also work in government or advocacy organizations, helping to shape public policy. Some popular employers in this field include the Democratic National Committee, the Republican National Committee, and consulting firms like GMMB and AKPD Message and Media. To succeed in Political Campaign Management, you'll need a combination of personal attributes, skills, and subject interests. You should be passionate about politics and have a deep understanding of the issues facing our society. You should also be a strong communicator, able to craft compelling messages and build relationships with voters. And you should be a strategic thinker, able to develop and execute a winning campaign plan. So if you're interested in politics and want to make a difference in the world, consider studying Political Campaign Management. It's a challenging and rewarding field that can lead to a fulfilling career and a lifetime of civic engagement.

Christopher Hitchens, one of the most incisive minds of our time, meets George Orwell in this thought-provoking essay, where he assesses the life, achievements, and myth of the great political writer. Hitchens examines Orwell's perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. Whether thinking about empires or dictators, race or class, nationalism or popular culture, Orwell's moral outlook remains indispensable in a world that has undergone vast changes in the fifty years since his death. This book is a tightly woven and subtle argument that addresses not only why Orwell matters today but how he will continue to matter in a future, uncertain world. Recommended for history buffs, political science students, and anyone interested in the power of language and the role of the writer in society. This book offers a unique perspective on the life and work of George Orwell, one of the most influential writers of the 20th century. Christopher Hitchens' essay is a thought-provoking analysis of Orwell's moral outlook and his perspectives on fascism, empire, feminism, and Englishness, as well as his outlook on America. It is a must-read for those who want to understand the influence of Orwell's writing on our modern world and how his ideas continue to shape our understanding of politics, culture, and society.

Why are non-flashlight portable lights taxed less than flashlights? MIT professor In Song Kim's research reveals how lobbying by individual companies shapes trade policies, and how it benefits some firms while hindering the economy as a whole. Kim's work also includes a public database, LobbyView, which tracks money in U.S. politics, enabling others to delve deeper into the topic. Discover the granular nature of trade policies and how private interests can sway public policy.

Infrastructure plays a crucial role in shaping our societies, economies, and daily lives. It consists of physical and organizational structures, such as roads, bridges, airports, hospitals, schools, and communication networks. Infrastructure is also deeply political in nature, reflecting power relations, social values, and ideological choices. In this write-up, we will explore the politics of infrastructure in an Asian context, examining how power and control operate in the built environment and how scholars have analyzed and critiqued these dynamics. One of the most significant examples of the politics of infrastructure in Asia is China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). BRI is a massive infrastructure development project that seeks to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of roads, railways, ports, and pipelines. BRI has been praised as a visionary plan for regional integration and economic development, but it has also been criticized for its lack of transparency, environmental impact, and debt trap diplomacy. Some scholars have argued that BRI is a tool for China to assert its global influence and hegemony. Another aspect of the politics of infrastructure in Asia is the role of authoritarian regimes in shaping the built environment. Countries such as North Korea, Myanmar, and Vietnam have used infrastructure projects to control and manipulate their populations, restrict access to information and services, and reinforce their rule. For example, the North Korean government has built a vast network of tunnels, bunkers, and underground facilities to protect its leadership and military assets, while ordinary citizens suffer from poor living conditions and limited access to basic amenities. However, the politics of infrastructure in Asia does not only revolve around authoritarianism and control. Scholars have also explored how infrastructure can promote social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and participatory democracy. For example, the Indian state of Kerala has implemented a decentralized and community-led approach to water management, involving local women's groups and civil society organizations in decision-making processes. This approach has improved water access and quality, reduced conflicts, and empowered marginalized communities. Some of the key concepts and terms relevant to the politics of infrastructure in Asia include hegemony, neoliberalism, social capital, and participatory democracy. Leading scholars who have contributed to our understanding of the politics of infrastructure in Asia include Ching Kwan Lee, Jamie Peck, and Ananya Roy. Lee has studied the labor dynamics and social implications of infrastructure construction in China and Africa, while Peck has critiqued the neoliberalization of urban planning and governance. Roy has written about the intersections of infrastructure, land, and social justice in the global South. In conclusion, the politics of infrastructure in Asia is a multifaceted and complex topic that touches on issues of power, control, and social justice. By exploring this topic, student can develop their own ideas and proposals for more equitable and sustainable infrastructure policies and practices in their own communities.

Canadian singer, Jully Black, made headlines when she sang her country's national anthem at an NBA all-star game and altered the lyrics from "our home and native land" to "our home on native land" in solidarity with indigenous communities. This small change has sparked a larger conversation about Canada's history of oppression and assimilation of indigenous people, and the need for reconciliation. While some have criticized the change, many have praised it as a model for all Canadians. This issue raises important questions about identity, power, and representation, and highlights the role of music and art in social and political activism.

In a world where social media is king, how do modern protests form and operate? Zeynep Tufekci offers insightful analysis and firsthand experience in "Twitter and Tear Gas." From the Zapatista uprisings in Mexico to the Arab Spring, Tufekci explores the power and limitations of using technology to mobilize large groups of people. Discover how tear gas empowered protesters in Istanbul's Gezi Park, and why the Occupy Movement refused to use bullhorns in New York. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of governance, culture, and the role of social media in modern protest movements. Recommended for political science, sociology, and communication studies students, as well as activists and organizers, "Twitter and Tear Gas" offers a unique perspective on the role of social media in modern protest movements. Zeynep Tufekci's firsthand experience and scholarly insights provide a nuanced understanding of how protests form and operate in the digital age. This book is relevant to anyone interested in the intersection of technology, culture, and governance, and how social media has changed the way people mobilize and demand change.

Are you passionate about diplomacy, international relations, and cultural exchange? Do you have an insatiable curiosity about the world and a desire to make a difference on a global scale? Then a career as a Foreign Service Officer might be your calling! Foreign Service Officers, or FSOs for short, are the face of the United States government abroad. They work for the U.S. Department of State and are responsible for representing American interests and promoting American values overseas. FSOs are stationed in U.S. embassies and consulates around the world, and their work can take them to some of the most fascinating and challenging places on the planet. As a Foreign Service Officer, you'll have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of meaningful and impactful activities. You might negotiate treaties, help American citizens in distress, promote U.S. business interests, or work to advance human rights and democracy. You'll also have the chance to immerse yourself in foreign cultures, learn new languages, and build lifelong friendships with people from all over the world. To become a Foreign Service Officer, you'll need to pass a rigorous selection process that includes a written exam, an oral assessment, and a thorough background investigation. Once you're accepted into the Foreign Service, you'll receive extensive training in everything from diplomatic protocol to security procedures to crisis management. You'll also have the opportunity to specialize in areas like political affairs, economic affairs, or public diplomacy. To excel as a Foreign Service Officer, you'll need to possess a variety of personal attributes. You should be adaptable, resilient, and able to think on your feet. You should also be a good communicator, both verbally and in writing, and possess strong interpersonal skills. And you should be committed to the principles of public service and the promotion of American values. The job prospects for Foreign Service Officers are excellent. The U.S. Department of State is always looking for talented and dedicated individuals to join its ranks. And once you're in the Foreign Service, you'll have the opportunity to work for a variety of prestigious employers, both in the public and private sectors. Some notable examples include the United Nations, the World Bank, and major multinational corporations. So if you're looking for a career that combines adventure, intellectual challenge, and the opportunity to make a real difference in the world, then consider becoming a Foreign Service Officer. It's a career that will take you places you've never imagined and allow you to have a positive impact on the world around you.

The power of language and its ability to shape thought is a key academic concept that is explored in George Orwell's novel "1984." Orwell's warning about the deceptive and manipulative use of language is still relevant today, as we are constantly bombarded with propaganda and soundbites that affect our behavior and opinions. By understanding the importance of language and how it can be used to manipulate and control, students can become critical thinkers who are able to question assumptions and communicate clearly. Learning about this concept can benefit students both intellectually and practically, as it can help them navigate the complexities of modern society and protect their ability to think independently. So the next time you hear the word "Orwellian," pay attention and remember the importance of protecting our language and our ability to think for ourselves.

A new Brown University study reveals that people with a low tolerance for uncertainty tend to hold more extreme political views, with the same neural mechanisms driving liberals and conservatives into their respective camps. The findings suggest that factors beyond political beliefs themselves can influence an individual's ideological biases, potentially leading to animosity and misunderstanding in society. Discover the surprising and solvable factors that shape our perception of political reality in this groundbreaking research.

Pablo Picasso's "Guernica" is a masterpiece of anti-war art that powerfully documents the horrors of the bombing of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War. The painting's abstracted Cubist style creates a disorienting and overwhelming view of violence, destruction, and casualties. The use of multiple perspectives compounds the horror on display, sending the eyes hurtling around the frame in a futile hunt for peace. Despite the chaos, carefully crafted scenes and symbols carry out the painting's multifaceted attack on fascism. Decades after its creation, "Guernica" retains its power to shock viewers and ignite debate, making it a searing reminder of the true casualties of violence. By exploring this work, students can develop their critical thinking skills, gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of war and political messaging, and be inspired to use art as a means of social and political protest.

Are you curious about how game theory can be applied to real-world situations? Look no further than this intriguing collection of essays that explores the complex dynamics of negotiations, war, criminal deterrence, and more. With illuminating comparisons between seemingly unrelated scenarios, such as limited war and a traffic jam, this book challenges readers to think critically about the common interests and conflicts that arise between adversaries. Discover the enlightening insights that game theory can offer in understanding the modern strategy of terror and the ancient institution of hostages. Recommended for students of political science, international relations, and law, as well as professionals in negotiation, conflict resolution, and criminal justice. This book offers a fascinating exploration of game theory and its applications in various real-world scenarios. By examining the similarities between seemingly unrelated situations, readers are challenged to think critically about the complexities of negotiations, war, and criminal deterrence. This book is particularly relevant for those interested in understanding the dynamics of conflict and the strategies used to mitigate it.