2022 Post: Throughout this American Government and Politics course, my understanding of local politics and national structures evolved significantly. Initially, I viewed the U.S. political system through a conventional lens, perceiving the two-party system as a fixed and dominant framework. However, discussions around the Trump presidency, the events of January 6th, and the increasing polarization within the country prompted me to reconsider this view. I came to understand that the current system is more fragile and dynamic than I previously thought, and the deepening divide between political ideologies may necessitate a fundamental transformation.
One of the most important concepts I learned was pluralism, which offers a potential solution to the growing polarization in the U.S. Prior to this course, I hadn’t fully considered how a pluralist system, representing a broader range of voices, could improve the current political climate. The rise of Trump and his control over the Republican Party, despite opposition from party elites, demonstrates how political movements can be also shaped by individuals, instead of parties, thus challenging the idea of rigid political structures.
Furthermore, I gained a deeper understanding of how partisanship has shifted from being primarily about ideology to becoming more of a social identity. The course helped me realize that people’s political affiliations are now deeply tied to their sense of self, which intensifies polarization and makes compromise more difficult. Asymmetric extremism, where one side shifts further toward the radical end while the other does not, also became clear to me as an important dynamic that exacerbates the divide. Such an extreme divide, as showcased through the events of January 6th forced me to acknowledge the fragility of political norms and democratic institutions in the U.S. Trump’s role in inciting the riot and the lack of consequences for his actions revealed how easily democratic principles can be disregarded. Throughout the course we discussed how our political system is at an important crossroads; the current two-party system and growing polarization make it clear that a more inclusive and responsive government is needed. Pluralism, though challenging, offers a way forward by ensuring more diverse political voices are heard.
I originally wrote the reflection above following my final paper about the importance of Pluralism in the US Government. While it was crucial to understand the fundamental infrastructures and dynamics within our national government, now, as a senior looking back on the course, it is even more striking to see the path that has taken us to the present day politics. The rampant polarization and divide in our country has not been a shock following the 2016 election; however, it is even more disheartening to compare my reflection on pluralism to the reality facing us now. The opposing sides have become more narrow minded, as have the populations that rally behind them. Now, more than ever, I find the Global Engagement Minor to be extremely valuable. In a climate that is lacking in diverse solutions, honest conversations, and overall grace, centering my education the GEM has provided just that. Where I originally started with the Minor as a means for more holistic language learning, I have now found the applications of intercultural competence to be poignant closer to home.
I realize that the lessons I’ve learned from both the American Government and Politics course and the Global Engagement Minor are not only relevant in understanding the intricacies of politics but also in fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society on a smaller scale. The polarization we see today is not just a political issue but a social and cultural one, rooted in how we relate to each other across divides. The ability to listen to those who think differently, to engage with diverse perspectives, and to challenge my own assumptions has become a foundational skill in both understanding global dynamics and addressing local challenges. While pluralism once seemed like a theoretical solution to polarization, I now see it as a daily practice; and, the tools I’ve developed through the GEM program have become invaluable for my education.
