POLITICAL PARTIES IN AMERICA

I.  Introduction:  Let’s Party!

A.  The "Baneful Effect" of Political Parties
B.  Definition

II.  Functions of Political Parties

A.  Serve as Brokers of Ideas
B.  Recruiting Candidates
C.  Organizing and Running Elections
D.  Coordinate Government Operations
E.  Sources of Opposition

III.  The Rise of Political Factions in America

A.  Very Brief Overview
B.  The Institutionalization of Mass Parties

IV.  Realignment in American Politics

A.  Definition
B.  Party Systems
C.  6th Party System: Realignment or Dealignment?

V.  Mechanics: How Do Parties Work?

A.  Party Organization
B.  Why a National Committee?

VI.  America’s Two Party System 

A.  Definition
        1.  Historical Foundations of the System
        2.  Political Socialization and Party Identification
        3.  Political Culture
        4.  Winner Take All Electoral System
        5.  Favorable State and Federal Laws

VII.  Third Parties

A.  Their Role
B.  Case Study:  Ross Perot’s Reform Party

VIII.  Conclusion: Is the Party Over?

A.  Why Are They Weak?
        1.  Decentralized Structure and Media Access
        2.  But Still Relevant