Why you Should be Politically Educated

A 2016 survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania, found that only 26% of respondents could name all three branches of government. A Newsweek survey from 2011 found that 70 percent of Americans didn’t even know that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land. It concerns me that often I see statistics like these reflected in my interactions with my peers. I imagine I would hate to see the statistics about current events. What percentage of people know that the Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi is opening an impeachment inquiry into President Trump? What percentage knows who Nancy Pelosi is? What percentage knows the difference between the House of Representatives and the Senate?

At one point in my life I did not know much about matters like these. But then I slowly began to grow an interest in politics, and looking around, I’m dismayed that some people are so uninterested in politics. I believe that not only is it important to be educated about politics and current events, but it is also very interesting! We are living through a historic moment right now, and it amazes me to see people who are wholly ignorant about anything involving the Trump administration.

Greek General Pericles said “Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you.” When you take a more active role in being informed on political events, you will be more inclined to vote in your best interest. I believe that if everyone was more informed, our government would better represent all of America, and this would affect better changes in our lives. Legislation on all levels of government are not intangible things that do not affect you. From healthcare, to student loan debt, to creating an economy that works for everyone, there are policies that WILL affect you at some point. When you do not exercise your right to vote, someone else is, and they may not have your best interests in mind. This is why it is important to know what is happening in Washington, and what you can do to make your voice heard. It is not a fruitless effort.

If you want to dig deeper into politics, I encourage you to listen to a political news podcast, read some journalism or if you must, watch some cable news. It doesn’t take long to get an understanding of the political process, what is happening every day, how it may affect you directly and what you can do to influence changes to your life in a positive way. Just remember to be discerning about where you get your information, not every outlet is reputable, and many are prone to lying to their audience. Find some sources that interest you, and take a look into the world of politics, you may find it more interesting than you think.

Originally published in the Fulcrum, October 7, 2019