Do 4th of July Festivities Turn Children Into Republicans?
SodaHead Living
2011/07/01 22:36:51
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According to a new study, published by Harvard University, July 4th-themed celebrations, such as fireworks, parades, political speeches, and barbecues, "energize Republicans, turn children into Republicans and increse GOP voter turnout."
Republicans, the authors say, consider themselves more patriotic than Democrats and have been more successful in "appropriating" the symbols of American patriotism during the 20th century.
The authors also argue that Independence Day celebrations have the greatest impact on children.
These researchers may work at Harvard, but do you think they are correct?
Does celebrating the 4th of July really turn children into Republicans?
Simply put: "Fourth of July celebrations in the United States shape the nation's political landscape by forming beliefs and increasing participation, primarily in favor of the Republican Party," says the report.
Republicans, the authors say, consider themselves more patriotic than Democrats and have been more successful in "appropriating" the symbols of American patriotism during the 20th century.
The authors also argue that Independence Day celebrations have the greatest impact on children.
"Fourth of July celebrations in Republican dominated counties may thus be more politically biased events that socialize children into Republicans," say Yanagizawa-Drott and Madestam.
"We were surprised to find that childhood experiences of Fourth July celebrations could have such persistent effects."
These researchers may work at Harvard, but do you think they are correct?
Does celebrating the 4th of July really turn children into Republicans?
Read More: http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20076125-50...
Top Opinion
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Astro-Boy PHAET 2011/07/01 22:40:47No
+25Been celebrating the 4th with family since I can remember. I'm far from being a Republican. I don't see why it has to be politicized.
Harvard ladies and gentlemen. The epitome of stupidity. This is where our great leaders come from.
BTW , America is not a democracy ( I thought that too at one time ) . America is a " Constitutional Republic ". Hope you had a great 4th.