Distinguish between cross-cutting and reinforcing cleavages, and discuss which best describes the United States. What types of cleavages do you see in American society today?
Predict what might happen with these cleavages in the years ahead and give examples.
An ideal response will:
1. Explain the difference between a cross-cutting cleavage (divisions in society that cut across demographics) and a reinforcing cleavage (divisions in society that reinforce one another, making groups more similar).
2. Discuss that while American society has both types of cleavages, in general there are more of one kind than the otherâ€"for example, economic, class, and racial differences may divide us more than consensus on political values such as liberty and democracy unite us.
3. Predict the trajectory of both cross-cutting and reinforcing cleavages in American society for the future, discussing which are likely to get stronger or become more prevalent and why. Specifically refer to issues such as growing income inequality and heightened racial tensions, or the commitment to democracy, the distrust of government, and the belief in American exceptionalism.
4. Provide a clear and effective conclusion.
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