watch “Obama’s Deal”:
www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/obamasdeal/view/?autoplay
Prompt: Having reviewed the documentary and consulted the textbook chapter on interest groups, how would you describe and characterize the role of interest groups in the case of health care reform? For example, what channels of political influence were utilized by interest groups representing health insurance and pharmaceutical industry? Do you think representation of different voices within the public was balanced in this case? In addition, reflect on how this case complements, reinforces, or, perhaps, contradicts our textbook. In your essay, strive to engage political vocabulary (e.g. integrating concepts such public opinion, political culture, media, interest groups, lobbying, policy making, representation, democracy, civil society, and etc.). Any other reflections you would like to include in the discussion?
