1. 18.4 Political Parties and the Public Good

2. The Public Good - Anything that benefits the “Common Welfare” of society. - Helps the most people. - Do U.S. Political Parties bring more benefits than problems?

3. Criticism of Political Parties - Beholden to Special Interests - Candidates need money! - Politicians listen to donors.

4. Criticisms of Political Parties - Politicians work for themselves. - Only run for office to have a job. - Politicians just like to fight! - Politicking

5. Criticisms of Political Parties - Political Parties are weak! - No way to punish disloyalty. - Little activity outside of elections.

6. Benefits of Political Parties - Provide information to voters. - “Brand Name” recognition. - Educate voters on issues.

7. Benefits of Political Parties - Allows for diverse opinions. - Gets more citizens involved.

8. Benefits of Political Parties - Keeps things stable! - Each Party has many issues. - One disappointment does not lose the party much support.

9. Benefits of Political Parties - Encourages participation. - People join parties to participate.