Traditionally, when entering college, a person aspiring to a political career would focus on one of two paths: political science or a pre-law major. In both instances the individuals often would then seek entry into law school upon college graduation. Guidance, career, and academic counselors would often contend these as the best paths to politics and it is borne out by the fact that many of the of the incumbents at the state and national levels of political office were once practicing attorneys.
With today’s worldwide economy, the multi-culturalism of this society, the turmoil and resulting potential flashpoints in certain regions of the world, the reality of technology changing at lightning speed, and an extensive disapproval of certain branches and levels of government, this may be the time to shift the academic paradigm for our future political leaders.
One suggestion as an alternative to political science might be the study of economics or business as a college major.
Given the fact that the world’s economy is shifting, that it is intertwined and interdependent, a full understanding of economics is necessary. A decison in Peking could impact on life in DesMoines and a response in Washington must be based upon grasp of the other nation’s economy, society, and doctrines. A focus on business will enhance a politician’s understanding of organizations, the dynamics of their operation and existence, the need for change, and even an understanding of marketing helps in an understanding and strategizing that promotes and advocates change or new programs.
The study of history is not just an in depth review of the major past events and the historical figures that impacted and shaped life in today’s world. It is also an examination of human nature: motivations, foibles, strengths, weaknesses, and,
when occassions arise the ascendance to greatness. History uncovers trends and the possibilty of multiple causation of
events and the inevitability of unintended consequences.
A study of psychology as a college major would be a viable major for an individual who seeks to serve in the political arena. Certainly from the moment of opening a candidacy an understanding of personality types is essential. One former president spoke of “stroking” people. Translated, that meant how to handle people. Candidates often talk about putting a “spin” on some issue or the other. What they are doing, in effect, is crafting the given issue so that the public’s perception of that particular issue casts the politician’s stance, response, or intiative is viewed with a favorable perception by given interest groups or populations.
Find out about how you can study politics – click here to visit the American Political Science Association
In the near future there will be college majors deriving from the Internet. Conceivably, these can be in the area of information retrieval, SEO’s, intelligence gathering and interpretation, marketing, and even variations of these. An astute future politician who majors and masters any one of these things will jump start their candidacy, maximize resources,
and interpret and respond to electoral trends.
Obviously, there are other academic paths that could lead to a political career. These might include Literature, Sociology, or Foriegn Languages. Beyond the undergraduate experience an MBA might be an alternative to law school. All of these suggestions provide basic preparation. Motivation, energy, resourcefulness, and dedication are also essential ingredients.
Incoming search terms:
- www therobnettreview com