Gaining an awareness of the complex link between money and politics calls for a thorough investigation of many sources. From scholarly studies to news investigations, these materials provide insightful analysis of how money influences political results.
Academic Research
The academic study offers a strict, evidence-based method for examining politics and money. Scholars in political science, economics, sociology, and other fields have closely studied issues like political corruption, lobbying, and campaign money. Among the necessary materials to investigate are the following:
- Journals such as the American Political Science Review, the American Journal of Political Science, and the Political Science Quarterly publish peer-reviewed papers on a broad spectrum of money and political issues.
- Books provide thorough study and synthesis of political and financial research. Among the seminal books are “Dark Money” by Jane Mayer, “The Price of Politics” by Tim Phillips, and “The System: Who Rigged It, How We Break It” by Robert Reich.
- Organizations, including the Brennan Centre for Justice, the Campaign Legal Centre, and the Centre for Responsive Politics, generate innovative research and policy analysis on money and politics.
Investigative Journalism
Exposing corruption, revealing secret financial networks, and holding officials responsible depends critically on investigative journalism. Reporters frequently use public records, leaked papers, and source interviews to highlight the negative side of money and politics. Investigative journalism on politics and money has produced some noteworthy pieces, including:
- The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal have carried several investigative pieces on money and politics.
- Online news sources such as ProPublica, The Intercept, and Politico have also greatly enhanced investigative journalism on money and politics.
Government Database and Public Record
Public records and government databases offer rich data on campaign money, lobbying, and other facets of money and politics. Among the necessary materials to investigate are the following:
- Enforcing federal campaign financing rules falls to the Federal Election Commission (FEC). Its website offers various information about fundraising events, campaign contributions, and expenses.
- Open Secrets: A nonpartisan nonprofit organization that tracks American political funds, OpenSecrets offers information on super PAC expenditures, campaigning money, and lobbying on its website.
- State and Local Election Commissions: Election commissions run by many states and local governments gather and preserve campaign money and lobbying information.
Summary
Investigating these materials helps people better grasp the complicated interaction between politics and money. Staying educated and involved is crucial, as the impact of money on politics still shapes our culture. Understanding the problems and supporting changes will help us create a more democratic and fair future.