To vote or not to vote?

Every year students complain about taking classes that serve no purpose in their lives. Political science classes typically receive a majority of these complaints.

Most people do not possess an interest in politics, and this lack of interest causes students to loathe American Government classes even more. However, it is a required class for graduation.

There may be a solution that can dissolve the increasing animosity towards POLS classes.

Students have been lectured for years about the decline in voter turnout in young people. We understand that the embarrassingly low number is our fault.

Yet, older generations and teachers must consider the fact that the younger population is ignorant in the knowledge of what characteristics to look for in a politician. Young people are less likely to be able to determine which politician deserves a respectable position in our government.

Some students are uncertain about which political party they should support.

Studies show that most young people agree with arguments presented by candidates from both political parties. This confusion aggravates young voters and prevents them from going to the polls.

With no knowledge of politics, freshmen believe that political science classes will help them decide if they are more liberal or conservative.

Although parts of the classes do provide insight on current political views, most simply describe the functions and history of the American government system.

Students easily become frustrated with the political science classes when they walk away at the end of the semester still clueless about matters of voting and political figures. These required classes should offer lessons on things to be aware of in politicians.

Yes, such a lesson would appear to be forcing the teacher�s opinions on the students, but students could be allowed to voice their own beliefs at any point and initiate a class debate.

Students need to be taught what to do when they agree with both politicians and what key points to look for throughout a candidate�s campaign.

Gaining knowledge on how our national government functions is important for every citizen, but understanding the characteristics candidates should possess is imperative as well.