Book

The performance of politics : Obama's victory and the democratic struggle for power

Alexander, Jeffrey C., 1947-

Overview

Observers of politics in America often reduce democracy to demography. Whatever portion of the vote not explained by the class, gender, race, and religion of voters is attributed to the candidates' positions. But are these really the only--or even the main--factors? Sociologist Jeffrey Alexander explains what happened, and why, during the 2008 presidential campaign. Drawing on examples taken from a range of media coverage, participant observation, and interviews with leading political journalists, Alexander argues that images, emotion, and performance are the central features of the battle for power. Largely overlooked by pundits, these features are, in fact, the primary foci of politicians and their staff. Obama and McCain painstakingly constructed and projected heroic self-images for their campaigns. Though an untested senator and the underdog in his own party, Obama succeeded in casting himself as the hero--and McCain the anti-hero--and the only candidate fit to lead in challenging times.--From publisher description.

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Subject: Obama, Barack. / Presidents United States Election 2008. / Performance art Political aspects United States. / United States Politics and government 2001-2009.
• ISBN: 9780199744466, 0199744467

Item info:

1 item available

1 item total in all locations

Holdings :

Call Number	Copies	Material	Location
E906.A44 2010	1	BOOK	AUTOSTORE