Chapter 4

1. Freedom of speech: How important is it? Does the freedom go "too far"? What areas of speech should not be protected?

Freedom of speech is a very important part of our first amendment.We came to America to escape tyrrany from England.  If we could not speak freely, we could not voice our opinions. One of the great freedoms of being an American is the ability to speak, whether it be about our government or about our religion.  I do feel that it goes too far in relation to the press and media. They can crucify you without proof . There have been many incidences where people have been ruined, when they were actually innocent of the accusations that were printed about them. However, there should be certain limitations to protect us. If we did not have limitations their would be anarchy.

2. Freedom of religion: Is separation of church and state necessary? Why or why not?

Freedom of religion is very important to me. There are many countries that cannot worship as they see fit, nor can they voice opinions without punishment. I cannot imagine my government telling me I can't believe in God, or whoever I chose to worship. I do think it has been taken too far by certain groups who use it to their own advantage. Our country was based on religious freedom, but they take "separation of church and state" and use it for their own agendas.

3. Criminal procedure: Are defendant's rights crucial to our system of government? Why or why not?
Many argue that defendants have too many rights. Do you agree? Why or why not?

I do not feel that they have too many rights. If not for the 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th amendments, we would not have the guarantee of due process or a fair trial.

Chapter 3


1. Is a strong national government necessary or should the state governments have an equal share of power? Why?

The constitution gave us a framework for a stronger system of governing the people. I think it makes the country move more smoothly by regulating the power between both state and national. I do feel the national government should be the stronger of the two.
 There are certain things state government should be responsible for and certain things national government should be in control of.

2. National power increased during the Great Depression but then power began to shift back to the states (somewhat) during the Reagan administration? Why did that happen and is that shift appropriate?

After the great depressions Congress has the power to accept any taxing or spending plan they thought supported general welfare. When Reagan was elected he vowed to cut spending and did. He cut back on catagorical grants and replaced them with block grants with fewer restrcitions on how to spend them. He also did away with revenue sharing. Over a period of time spending had become so out of control with very few limits that something had to be done to reign it in.

3. Education stirs much discussion relating to the issue of federalism. Should the national government regulate education or is it a matter best left to state and local governments? Why?

I do feel that giving national government the say over education has improved the system. They have put in the Student Aid & Fiscal Resposibility Act and I would rather deal with the government than with a bank. They have also expanded spending for pell grants and have added more funding for our community colleges