Understanding Citizens United Answer Key

Understanding Citizens United: Answer Key to a Complex Supreme Court Case

Introduction:

The 2010 Supreme Court case Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission remains one of the most controversial and debated rulings in American political history. Its impact on campaign finance, political speech, and the very fabric of American democracy continues to be felt today. This comprehensive guide serves as your "answer key" to understanding the complexities of Citizens United, unpacking the core arguments, the ruling itself, and its far-reaching consequences. We'll dissect the case's implications, address common misconceptions, and provide you with the tools to form your own informed opinion. Whether you're a seasoned political science student, a curious citizen, or simply seeking a clearer grasp of this landmark decision, this post will provide the clarity you need.


I. The Genesis of Citizens United: A Brief Overview

The case originated with Citizens United, a conservative non-profit organization, which sought to air a critical documentary film about Hillary Clinton during the 2008 presidential primaries. The FEC, citing the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA), argued that airing the film constituted an illegal corporate expenditure in violation of campaign finance laws. Citizens United challenged the BCRA, arguing it violated their First Amendment rights to free speech. This seemingly narrow legal dispute ignited a firestorm that would reshape the landscape of American campaign finance.

II. The Core Arguments Presented in Citizens United

The case presented a fundamental clash between campaign finance regulations and the First Amendment's protection of free speech. Citizens United argued that corporations and unions, as entities with free speech rights, should not be restricted from spending money to support or oppose political candidates. The opposing side argued that unrestricted corporate and union spending could lead to corruption and undue influence in elections, undermining the integrity of the democratic process. The heart of the debate centered on the definition of "speech" and the potential for money to corrupt the political system.

III. The Supreme Court's Ruling and its Rationale

In a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Citizens United, holding that corporations and unions have the same First Amendment rights as individuals. The Court argued that restricting independent political spending by corporations and unions amounted to censorship and violated their free speech rights. The majority opinion asserted that the government couldn't restrict political speech based solely on the speaker's corporate or union status. This decision effectively overturned key portions of the BCRA, significantly altering campaign finance laws.

IV. The Impact and Consequences of Citizens United

The Citizens United ruling had profound and lasting effects on the American political landscape. It led to the rise of Super PACs and other independent expenditure groups, which can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to support or oppose candidates. This influx of "dark money" into politics has raised concerns about transparency and accountability, making it more challenging to trace the sources of political funding. Critics argue that Citizens United has amplified the influence of wealthy donors and corporations, tilting the playing field in favor of well-funded campaigns. Conversely, supporters argue it has broadened political discourse and allowed for more diverse viewpoints to be expressed. The debate continues to rage on, with ongoing discussions about the appropriate balance between free speech and campaign finance regulation.

V. Misconceptions and Clarifications Regarding Citizens United

A common misconception is that Citizens United legalized bribery or direct contributions to candidates. This is incorrect. The ruling focused on independent expenditures, meaning spending that is not coordinated with a candidate's campaign. Direct contributions remain subject to limits and disclosure requirements. Another misconception is that the ruling applies only to corporations. The decision also applies to unions and other organizations.

VI. The Ongoing Debate and Future of Campaign Finance Reform

The Citizens United decision ignited a national debate about campaign finance reform that continues to this day. Advocates for stricter regulations point to the increased influence of money in politics and the potential for corruption. Those who oppose further regulation emphasize the importance of protecting free speech and the right of individuals and organizations to express their political views. The future of campaign finance reform remains uncertain, with ongoing legal challenges and legislative efforts aimed at addressing the issues raised by Citizens United.


VII. A Proposed "Answer Key" Outline:

Name: Deconstructing Citizens United: A Comprehensive Guide

Outline:

Introduction: Hooking the reader with a compelling overview of the case's significance.
Chapter 1: The Background of Citizens United: Detailed explanation of the case's origins and the events leading to the Supreme Court hearing.
Chapter 2: Key Arguments and Legal Precedents: Analysis of the arguments presented by both sides and relevant legal precedents.
Chapter 3: The Supreme Court's Ruling and its Rationale: A detailed explanation of the majority opinion and dissenting opinions.
Chapter 4: The Impact of Citizens United on American Politics: Discussion of the consequences of the ruling on campaign finance, political discourse, and the role of money in elections.
Chapter 5: Misconceptions and Clarifications: Addressing common misunderstandings about the ruling and clarifying its scope.
Chapter 6: The Ongoing Debate and Future Directions: Exploring the continuing debate over campaign finance reform and possible future developments.
Conclusion: Summarizing the key takeaways and encouraging further exploration of the topic.


(Each chapter would then be expanded upon in detail, similar to the structure used in the main body of this blog post.)


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. What is the main takeaway from the Citizens United ruling? The main takeaway is that corporations and unions have the same First Amendment rights as individuals, and the government cannot restrict their independent political spending.

2. Did Citizens United legalize bribery? No, it did not. The ruling pertains to independent expenditures, not direct contributions to candidates.

3. What are Super PACs, and how are they related to Citizens United? Super PACs are independent expenditure-only committees that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to support or oppose candidates. Citizens United paved the way for their proliferation.

4. What are the arguments against the Citizens United ruling? Critics argue it has increased the influence of money in politics, reduced transparency, and made elections less fair.

5. What are the arguments in favor of the Citizens United ruling? Supporters argue it protects free speech and allows for more diverse viewpoints to be expressed.

6. What is "dark money" in politics? "Dark money" refers to political spending where the source of the funds is not disclosed or is difficult to trace.

7. How has Citizens United affected the 2024 election cycle (or any relevant election cycle)? The impact is observable in the increased spending by Super PACs and other independent groups. (This answer will need to be updated as election cycles progress).

8. Are there any efforts to overturn or amend the Citizens United ruling? Yes, there are ongoing legislative and judicial efforts aimed at reforming campaign finance laws.

9. What are some of the legal challenges to Citizens United? Various legal challenges have been brought, focusing on different aspects of the ruling, often arguing for stricter regulation of political spending.


Related Articles:

1. The History of Campaign Finance Reform in the US: A chronological overview of campaign finance laws and regulations.
2. The Role of Super PACs in Modern Elections: An in-depth look at the impact of Super PACs on elections.
3. Dark Money in Politics: Tracing the Unseen Influence: An investigation into the sources and impact of undisclosed political spending.
4. The First Amendment and Political Speech: A Balancing Act: An examination of the interplay between free speech and campaign finance regulations.
5. Comparing Campaign Finance Laws Across Different Countries: A comparative analysis of campaign finance regulations globally.
6. The Impact of Citizens United on State-Level Elections: How the ruling has affected elections at the state level.
7. Citizen Engagement and the Post-Citizens United Era: How citizens can remain engaged despite the increased role of money in politics.
8. Debates and Discussions Surrounding Citizens United: Exploring the various viewpoints and arguments surrounding the ruling.
9. The Future of Campaign Finance Reform in the Digital Age: Analyzing the challenges and opportunities for campaign finance reform in the context of social media and online political advertising.


  understanding citizens united answer key: Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Board on Behavioral, Cognitive, and Sensory Sciences, Committee on the Science of Changing Behavioral Health Social Norms, 2016-09-03 Estimates indicate that as many as 1 in 4 Americans will experience a mental health problem or will misuse alcohol or drugs in their lifetimes. These disorders are among the most highly stigmatized health conditions in the United States, and they remain barriers to full participation in society in areas as basic as education, housing, and employment. Improving the lives of people with mental health and substance abuse disorders has been a priority in the United States for more than 50 years. The Community Mental Health Act of 1963 is considered a major turning point in America's efforts to improve behavioral healthcare. It ushered in an era of optimism and hope and laid the groundwork for the consumer movement and new models of recovery. The consumer movement gave voice to people with mental and substance use disorders and brought their perspectives and experience into national discussions about mental health. However over the same 50-year period, positive change in American public attitudes and beliefs about mental and substance use disorders has lagged behind these advances. Stigma is a complex social phenomenon based on a relationship between an attribute and a stereotype that assigns undesirable labels, qualities, and behaviors to a person with that attribute. Labeled individuals are then socially devalued, which leads to inequality and discrimination. This report contributes to national efforts to understand and change attitudes, beliefs and behaviors that can lead to stigma and discrimination. Changing stigma in a lasting way will require coordinated efforts, which are based on the best possible evidence, supported at the national level with multiyear funding, and planned and implemented by an effective coalition of representative stakeholders. Ending Discrimination Against People with Mental and Substance Use Disorders: The Evidence for Stigma Change explores stigma and discrimination faced by individuals with mental or substance use disorders and recommends effective strategies for reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek treatment and other supportive services. It offers a set of conclusions and recommendations about successful stigma change strategies and the research needed to inform and evaluate these efforts in the United States.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Communities in Action National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice, Committee on Community-Based Solutions to Promote Health Equity in the United States, 2017-04-27 In the United States, some populations suffer from far greater disparities in health than others. Those disparities are caused not only by fundamental differences in health status across segments of the population, but also because of inequities in factors that impact health status, so-called determinants of health. Only part of an individual's health status depends on his or her behavior and choice; community-wide problems like poverty, unemployment, poor education, inadequate housing, poor public transportation, interpersonal violence, and decaying neighborhoods also contribute to health inequities, as well as the historic and ongoing interplay of structures, policies, and norms that shape lives. When these factors are not optimal in a community, it does not mean they are intractable: such inequities can be mitigated by social policies that can shape health in powerful ways. Communities in Action: Pathways to Health Equity seeks to delineate the causes of and the solutions to health inequities in the United States. This report focuses on what communities can do to promote health equity, what actions are needed by the many and varied stakeholders that are part of communities or support them, as well as the root causes and structural barriers that need to be overcome.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Motivation to Vote André Blais, Jean-François Daoust, 2020-02-01 Elections are at the heart of our democracy. Understanding citizens’ decisions to vote or to abstain in elections is crucial, especially when turnout in so many democracies is declining. In The Motivation to Vote, André Blais and Jean-François Daoust provide an original and elegant model that explains why people vote. They argue that the decision to vote or abstain hinges on four factors: political interest, sense of civic duty, perceived importance of the election, and ease of voting. Their findings are strongly supported by empirical evidence from elections in five countries. The authors also test alternative explanations of voter turnout by looking at contextual factors and the role of habit, but find little evidence to support these hypotheses. This analysis is compelling and further demonstrates the power of their model to provide a provocative and parsimonious explanation of voter turnout in elections.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Super PACs Louise I. Gerdes, 2014-05-20 The passage of Citizens United by the Supreme Court in 2010 sparked a renewed debate about campaign spending by large political action committees, or Super PACs. Its ruling said that it is okay for corporations and labor unions to spend as much as they want in advertising and other methods to convince people to vote for or against a candidate. This book provides a wide range of opinions on the issue. Includes primary and secondary sources from a variety of perspectives; eyewitnesses, scientific journals, government officials, and many others.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Unfree Speech Samantha Sellinger, 2009-02-09 At a time when campaign finance reform is widely viewed as synonymous with cleaning up Washington and promoting political equality, Bradley Smith, a nationally recognized expert on campaign finance reform, argues that all restriction on campaign giving should be eliminated. In Unfree Speech, he presents a bold, convincing argument for the repeal of laws that regulate political spending and contributions, contending that they violate the right to free speech and ultimately diminish citizens' power. Smith demonstrates that these laws, which often force ordinary people making modest contributions of cash or labor to register with the Federal Election Commission or various state agencies, fail to accomplish their stated objectives. In fact, they have worked to entrench incumbents in office, deaden campaign discourse, burden grassroots political activity with needless regulation, and distance Americans from an increasingly professional, detached political class. Rather than attempting to plug loopholes in campaign finance law or instituting taxpayer-financed campaigns, Smith proposes a return to core First Amendment values of free speech and an unfettered right to engage in political activity. Smith finds that campaign contributions have little corrupting effect on the legislature and shows that an unrestrained system of contributions and spending actually enhances equality. More money, not less, is needed in the political system, Smith concludes. Unfree Speech draws upon constitutional law and historical research to explain why campaign finance regulation is doomed and to illustrate the potentially drastic costs of efforts to make it succeed. Whatever one thinks about the impact of money on electoral politics, no one should take a final stand without reading Smith's controversial and important arguments.
  understanding citizens united answer key: American Government 3e Glen Krutz, Sylvie Waskiewicz, 2023-05-12 Black & white print. American Government 3e aligns with the topics and objectives of many government courses. Faculty involved in the project have endeavored to make government workings, issues, debates, and impacts meaningful and memorable to students while maintaining the conceptual coverage and rigor inherent in the subject. With this objective in mind, the content of this textbook has been developed and arranged to provide a logical progression from the fundamental principles of institutional design at the founding, to avenues of political participation, to thorough coverage of the political structures that constitute American government. The book builds upon what students have already learned and emphasizes connections between topics as well as between theory and applications. The goal of each section is to enable students not just to recognize concepts, but to work with them in ways that will be useful in later courses, future careers, and as engaged citizens. In order to help students understand the ways that government, society, and individuals interconnect, the revision includes more examples and details regarding the lived experiences of diverse groups and communities within the United States. The authors and reviewers sought to strike a balance between confronting the negative and harmful elements of American government, history, and current events, while demonstrating progress in overcoming them. In doing so, the approach seeks to provide instructors with ample opportunities to open discussions, extend and update concepts, and drive deeper engagement.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Right to Vote Alexander Keyssar, 2009-06-30 Originally published in 2000, The Right to Vote was widely hailed as a magisterial account of the evolution of suffrage from the American Revolution to the end of the twentieth century. In this revised and updated edition, Keyssar carries the story forward, from the disputed presidential contest of 2000 through the 2008 campaign and the election of Barack Obama. The Right to Vote is a sweeping reinterpretation of American political history as well as a meditation on the meaning of democracy in contemporary American life.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Future of the Public's Health in the 21st Century Institute of Medicine, Board on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, Committee on Assuring the Health of the Public in the 21st Century, 2003-02-01 The anthrax incidents following the 9/11 terrorist attacks put the spotlight on the nation's public health agencies, placing it under an unprecedented scrutiny that added new dimensions to the complex issues considered in this report. The Future of the Public's Health in the 21st Century reaffirms the vision of Healthy People 2010, and outlines a systems approach to assuring the nation's health in practice, research, and policy. This approach focuses on joining the unique resources and perspectives of diverse sectors and entities and challenges these groups to work in a concerted, strategic way to promote and protect the public's health. Focusing on diverse partnerships as the framework for public health, the book discusses: The need for a shift from an individual to a population-based approach in practice, research, policy, and community engagement. The status of the governmental public health infrastructure and what needs to be improved, including its interface with the health care delivery system. The roles nongovernment actors, such as academia, business, local communities and the media can play in creating a healthy nation. Providing an accessible analysis, this book will be important to public health policy-makers and practitioners, business and community leaders, health advocates, educators and journalists.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Learn about the United States U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, 2009 Learn About the United States is intended to help permanent residents gain a deeper understanding of U.S. history and government as they prepare to become citizens. The product presents 96 short lessons, based on the sample questions from which the civics portion of the naturalization test is drawn. An audio CD that allows students to listen to the questions, answers, and civics lessons read aloud is also included. For immigrants preparing to naturalize, the chance to learn more about the history and government of the United States will make their journey toward citizenship a more meaningful one.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Plutocrats United Richard L. Hasen, 2016-01-12 Campaign financing is one of today’s most divisive political issues. The left asserts that the electoral process is rife with corruption. The right protests that the real aim of campaign limits is to suppress political activity and protect incumbents. Meanwhile, money flows freely on both sides. In Plutocrats United, Richard Hasen argues that both left and right avoid the key issue of the new Citizens United era: balancing political inequality with free speech. The Supreme Court has long held that corruption and its appearance are the only reasons to constitutionally restrict campaign funds. Progressives often agree but have a much broader view of corruption. Hasen argues for a new focus and way forward: if the government is to ensure robust political debate, the Supreme Court should allow limits on money in politics to prevent those with great economic power from distorting the political process.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Corporate/labor Communications , 1984
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Failure of Corporate Law Kent Greenfield, 2010-10-21 When used in conjunction with corporations, the term public is misleading. Anyone can purchase shares of stock, but public corporations themselves are uninhibited by a sense of societal obligation or strict public oversight. In fact, managers of most large firms are prohibited by law from taking into account the interests of the public in de...
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Federalist Papers Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison, 2018-08-20 Classic Books Library presents this brand new edition of “The Federalist Papers”, a collection of separate essays and articles compiled in 1788 by Alexander Hamilton. Following the United States Declaration of Independence in 1776, the governing doctrines and policies of the States lacked cohesion. “The Federalist”, as it was previously known, was constructed by American statesman Alexander Hamilton, and was intended to catalyse the ratification of the United States Constitution. Hamilton recruited fellow statesmen James Madison Jr., and John Jay to write papers for the compendium, and the three are known as some of the Founding Fathers of the United States. Alexander Hamilton (c. 1755–1804) was an American lawyer, journalist and highly influential government official. He also served as a Senior Officer in the Army between 1799-1800 and founded the Federalist Party, the system that governed the nation’s finances. His contributions to the Constitution and leadership made a significant and lasting impact on the early development of the nation of the United States.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Preparing for the Psychological Consequences of Terrorism Institute of Medicine, Board on Neuroscience and Behavioral Health, Committee on Responding to the Psychological Consequences of Terrorism, 2003-08-26 The Oklahoma City bombing, intentional crashing of airliners on September 11, 2001, and anthrax attacks in the fall of 2001 have made Americans acutely aware of the impacts of terrorism. These events and continued threats of terrorism have raised questions about the impact on the psychological health of the nation and how well the public health infrastructure is able to meet the psychological needs that will likely result. Preparing for the Psychological Consequences of Terrorism highlights some of the critical issues in responding to the psychological needs that result from terrorism and provides possible options for intervention. The committee offers an example for a public health strategy that may serve as a base from which plans to prevent and respond to the psychological consequences of a variety of terrorism events can be formulated. The report includes recommendations for the training and education of service providers, ensuring appropriate guidelines for the protection of service providers, and developing public health surveillance for preevent, event, and postevent factors related to psychological consequences.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Global Trends 2040 National Intelligence Council, 2021-03 The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic marks the most significant, singular global disruption since World War II, with health, economic, political, and security implications that will ripple for years to come. -Global Trends 2040 (2021) Global Trends 2040-A More Contested World (2021), released by the US National Intelligence Council, is the latest report in its series of reports starting in 1997 about megatrends and the world's future. This report, strongly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, paints a bleak picture of the future and describes a contested, fragmented and turbulent world. It specifically discusses the four main trends that will shape tomorrow's world: - Demographics-by 2040, 1.4 billion people will be added mostly in Africa and South Asia. - Economics-increased government debt and concentrated economic power will escalate problems for the poor and middleclass. - Climate-a hotter world will increase water, food, and health insecurity. - Technology-the emergence of new technologies could both solve and cause problems for human life. Students of trends, policymakers, entrepreneurs, academics, journalists and anyone eager for a glimpse into the next decades, will find this report, with colored graphs, essential reading.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Model Rules of Professional Conduct American Bar Association. House of Delegates, Center for Professional Responsibility (American Bar Association), 2007 The Model Rules of Professional Conduct provides an up-to-date resource for information on legal ethics. Federal, state and local courts in all jurisdictions look to the Rules for guidance in solving lawyer malpractice cases, disciplinary actions, disqualification issues, sanctions questions and much more. In this volume, black-letter Rules of Professional Conduct are followed by numbered Comments that explain each Rule's purpose and provide suggestions for its practical application. The Rules will help you identify proper conduct in a variety of given situations, review those instances where discretionary action is possible, and define the nature of the relationship between you and your clients, colleagues and the courts.
  understanding citizens united answer key: New Mobilities Todd Litman, 2021-06-17 In New Mobilities: Smart Planning for Emerging Transportation Technologies, transportation expert Todd Litman examines 12 emerging transportation modes and services that are likely to significantly affect our lives: bike- and carsharing, micro-mobilities, ridehailing and micro-transit, public transit innovations, telework, autonomous and electric vehicles, air taxis, mobility prioritization, and logistics management. Public policies around New Mobilities can either help create heaven, a well-planned transportation system that uses new technologies intelligently, or hell, a poorly planned transportation system that is overwhelmed by conflicting and costly, unhealthy, and inequitable modes. His expert analysis will help planners, local policymakers, and concerned citizens to make informed choices about the New Mobility revolution.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Families Caring for an Aging America National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Health Care Services, Committee on Family Caregiving for Older Adults, 2016-12-08 Family caregiving affects millions of Americans every day, in all walks of life. At least 17.7 million individuals in the United States are caregivers of an older adult with a health or functional limitation. The nation's family caregivers provide the lion's share of long-term care for our older adult population. They are also central to older adults' access to and receipt of health care and community-based social services. Yet the need to recognize and support caregivers is among the least appreciated challenges facing the aging U.S. population. Families Caring for an Aging America examines the prevalence and nature of family caregiving of older adults and the available evidence on the effectiveness of programs, supports, and other interventions designed to support family caregivers. This report also assesses and recommends policies to address the needs of family caregivers and to minimize the barriers that they encounter in trying to meet the needs of older adults.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights , 1978
  understanding citizens united answer key: Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 United States. Office of Federal Elections, 1974
  understanding citizens united answer key: Epilepsy Across the Spectrum Institute of Medicine, Board on Health Sciences Policy, Committee on the Public Health Dimensions of the Epilepsies, 2012-07-29 Although epilepsy is one of the nation's most common neurological disorders, public understanding of it is limited. Many people do not know the causes of epilepsy or what they should do if they see someone having a seizure. Epilepsy is a complex spectrum of disorders that affects an estimated 2.2 million Americans in a variety of ways, and is characterized by unpredictable seizures that differ in type, cause, and severity. Yet living with epilepsy is about much more than just seizures; the disorder is often defined in practical terms, such as challenges in school, uncertainties about social situations and employment, limitations on driving, and questions about independent living. The Institute of Medicine was asked to examine the public health dimensions of the epilepsies, focusing on public health surveillance and data collection; population and public health research; health policy, health care, and human services; and education for people with the disorder and their families, health care providers, and the public. In Epilepsy Across the Spectrum, the IOM makes recommendations ranging from the expansion of collaborative epilepsy surveillance efforts, to the coordination of public awareness efforts, to the engagement of people with epilepsy and their families in education, dissemination, and advocacy for improved care and services. Taking action across multiple dimensions will improve the lives of people with epilepsy and their families. The realistic, feasible, and action-oriented recommendations in this report can help enable short- and long-term improvements for people with epilepsy. For all epilepsy organizations and advocates, local, state, and federal agencies, researchers, health care professionals, people with epilepsy, as well as the public, Epilepsy Across the Spectrum is an essential resource.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Federal Reserve System Purposes and Functions Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, 2002 Provides an in-depth overview of the Federal Reserve System, including information about monetary policy and the economy, the Federal Reserve in the international sphere, supervision and regulation, consumer and community affairs and services offered by Reserve Banks. Contains several appendixes, including a brief explanation of Federal Reserve regulations, a glossary of terms, and a list of additional publications.
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Little Black Book of Scams Industry Canada, Competition Bureau Canada, 2014-03-10 The Canadian edition of The Little Black Book of Scams is a compact and easy to use reference guide filled with information Canadians can use to protect themselves against a variety of common scams. It debunks common myths about scams, provides contact information for reporting a scam to the correct authority, and offers a step-by-step guide for scam victims to reduce their losses and avoid becoming repeat victims. Consumers and businesses can consult The Little Black Book of Scams to avoid falling victim to social media and mobile phone scams, fake charities and lotteries, dating and romance scams, and many other schemes used to defraud Canadians of their money and personal information.
  understanding citizens united answer key: U.S. Health in International Perspective National Research Council, Institute of Medicine, Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice, Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Committee on Population, Panel on Understanding Cross-National Health Differences Among High-Income Countries, 2013-04-12 The United States is among the wealthiest nations in the world, but it is far from the healthiest. Although life expectancy and survival rates in the United States have improved dramatically over the past century, Americans live shorter lives and experience more injuries and illnesses than people in other high-income countries. The U.S. health disadvantage cannot be attributed solely to the adverse health status of racial or ethnic minorities or poor people: even highly advantaged Americans are in worse health than their counterparts in other, peer countries. In light of the new and growing evidence about the U.S. health disadvantage, the National Institutes of Health asked the National Research Council (NRC) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) to convene a panel of experts to study the issue. The Panel on Understanding Cross-National Health Differences Among High-Income Countries examined whether the U.S. health disadvantage exists across the life span, considered potential explanations, and assessed the larger implications of the findings. U.S. Health in International Perspective presents detailed evidence on the issue, explores the possible explanations for the shorter and less healthy lives of Americans than those of people in comparable countries, and recommends actions by both government and nongovernment agencies and organizations to address the U.S. health disadvantage.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Super PACs (Political Action Committees) Derrick D. Jamison, Gina Gore, 2012 Super PACs emerged after the U.S. Supreme Court permitted unlimited corporate and union spending on elections in January 2010. These entities have been permitted to accept unlimited contributions and make unlimited expenditures aimed at electing or defeating federal candidates. Super PACs may not contribute funds directly to federal candidates or parties. This book explores what super PACs are, how they developed, what they raised and spent in the 2010 election cycle, and issues that appear on the horizon for 2012.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Good Corporation, Bad Corporation Guillermo C. Jimenez, Elizabeth Pulos, 2016 This textbook provides an innovative, internationally oriented approach to the teaching of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and business ethics. Drawing on case studies involving companies and countries around the world, the textbook explores the social, ethical, and business dynamics underlying CSR in such areas as global warming, genetically modified organisms (GMO) in food production, free trade and fair trade, anti-sweatshop and living-wage movements, organic foods and textiles, ethical marketing practices and codes, corporate speech and lobbying, and social enterprise. The book is designed to encourage students and instructors to challenge their own assumptions and prejudices by stimulating a class debate based on each case study--Provided by publisher.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Campaign Finance & American Democracy David M. Primo, Jeffrey D. Milyo, 2020-11-13 In recent decades, and particularly since the US Supreme Court’s controversial Citizens United decision, lawmakers and other elites have told Americans that stricter campaign finance laws are needed to improve faith in the elections process, increase trust in the government, and counter cynicism toward politics. But as David M. Primo and Jeffrey D. Milyo argue, politicians and the public alike should reconsider the conventional wisdom in light of surprising and comprehensive empirical evidence to the contrary. Primo and Milyo probe original survey data to determine Americans’ sentiments on the role of money in politics, what drives these sentiments, and why they matter. What Primo and Milyo find is that while many individuals support the idea of reform, they are also skeptical that reform would successfully limit corruption, which Americans believe stains almost every fiber of the political system. Moreover, support for campaign finance restrictions is deeply divided along party lines, reflecting the polarization of our times. Ultimately, Primo and Milyo contend, American attitudes toward money in politics reflect larger fears about the health of American democracy, fears that will not be allayed by campaign finance reform.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Why Nations Fail Daron Acemoglu, James A. Robinson, 2013-09-17 Brilliant and engagingly written, Why Nations Fail answers the question that has stumped the experts for centuries: Why are some nations rich and others poor, divided by wealth and poverty, health and sickness, food and famine? Is it culture, the weather, geography? Perhaps ignorance of what the right policies are? Simply, no. None of these factors is either definitive or destiny. Otherwise, how to explain why Botswana has become one of the fastest growing countries in the world, while other African nations, such as Zimbabwe, the Congo, and Sierra Leone, are mired in poverty and violence? Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson conclusively show that it is man-made political and economic institutions that underlie economic success (or lack of it). Korea, to take just one of their fascinating examples, is a remarkably homogeneous nation, yet the people of North Korea are among the poorest on earth while their brothers and sisters in South Korea are among the richest. The south forged a society that created incentives, rewarded innovation, and allowed everyone to participate in economic opportunities. The economic success thus spurred was sustained because the government became accountable and responsive to citizens and the great mass of people. Sadly, the people of the north have endured decades of famine, political repression, and very different economic institutions—with no end in sight. The differences between the Koreas is due to the politics that created these completely different institutional trajectories. Based on fifteen years of original research Acemoglu and Robinson marshall extraordinary historical evidence from the Roman Empire, the Mayan city-states, medieval Venice, the Soviet Union, Latin America, England, Europe, the United States, and Africa to build a new theory of political economy with great relevance for the big questions of today, including: - China has built an authoritarian growth machine. Will it continue to grow at such high speed and overwhelm the West? - Are America’s best days behind it? Are we moving from a virtuous circle in which efforts by elites to aggrandize power are resisted to a vicious one that enriches and empowers a small minority? - What is the most effective way to help move billions of people from the rut of poverty to prosperity? More philanthropy from the wealthy nations of the West? Or learning the hard-won lessons of Acemoglu and Robinson’s breakthrough ideas on the interplay between inclusive political and economic institutions? Why Nations Fail will change the way you look at—and understand—the world.
  understanding citizens united answer key: AQA A-level Politics Student Guide 4: Government and Politics of the USA and Comparative Politics Simon Lemieux, 2018-02-26 Exam board: AQA Level: A-level Subject: Politics First teaching: September 2017 First exams: Summer 2019 Written by experienced teacher Simon Lemieux, this Student Guide for Politics: -Identifies the key content you need to know with a concise summary of topics examined in the A-level specifications -Enables you to measure your understanding with exam tips and knowledge check questions, with answers at the end of the guide -Helps you to improve your exam technique with sample answers to exam-style questions -Develops your independent learning skills with content you can use for further study and research
  understanding citizens united answer key: The Future of Public Health Committee for the Study of the Future of Public Health, Division of Health Care Services, Institute of Medicine, 1988-01-15 The Nation has lost sight of its public health goals and has allowed the system of public health to fall into 'disarray', from The Future of Public Health. This startling book contains proposals for ensuring that public health service programs are efficient and effective enough to deal not only with the topics of today, but also with those of tomorrow. In addition, the authors make recommendations for core functions in public health assessment, policy development, and service assurances, and identify the level of government--federal, state, and local--at which these functions would best be handled.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Long Way Down Jason Reynolds, 2017-10-24 “An intense snapshot of the chain reaction caused by pulling a trigger.” —Booklist (starred review) “Astonishing.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “A tour de force.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review) A Newbery Honor Book A Coretta Scott King Honor Book A Printz Honor Book A Time Best YA Book of All Time (2021) A Los Angeles Times Book Prize Winner for Young Adult Literature Longlisted for the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature Winner of the Walter Dean Myers Award An Edgar Award Winner for Best Young Adult Fiction Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winner An Entertainment Weekly Best YA Book of 2017 A Vulture Best YA Book of 2017 A Buzzfeed Best YA Book of 2017 An ode to Put the Damn Guns Down, this is New York Times bestselling author Jason Reynolds’s electrifying novel that takes place in sixty potent seconds—the time it takes a kid to decide whether or not he’s going to murder the guy who killed his brother. A cannon. A strap. A piece. A biscuit. A burner. A heater. A chopper. A gat. A hammer A tool for RULE Or, you can call it a gun. That’s what fifteen-year-old Will has shoved in the back waistband of his jeans. See, his brother Shawn was just murdered. And Will knows the rules. No crying. No snitching. Revenge. That’s where Will’s now heading, with that gun shoved in the back waistband of his jeans, the gun that was his brother’s gun. He gets on the elevator, seventh floor, stoked. He knows who he’s after. Or does he? As the elevator stops on the sixth floor, on comes Buck. Buck, Will finds out, is who gave Shawn the gun before Will took the gun. Buck tells Will to check that the gun is even loaded. And that’s when Will sees that one bullet is missing. And the only one who could have fired Shawn’s gun was Shawn. Huh. Will didn’t know that Shawn had ever actually USED his gun. Bigger huh. BUCK IS DEAD. But Buck’s in the elevator? Just as Will’s trying to think this through, the door to the next floor opens. A teenage girl gets on, waves away the smoke from Dead Buck’s cigarette. Will doesn’t know her, but she knew him. Knew. When they were eight. And stray bullets had cut through the playground, and Will had tried to cover her, but she was hit anyway, and so what she wants to know, on that fifth floor elevator stop, is, what if Will, Will with the gun shoved in the back waistband of his jeans, MISSES. And so it goes, the whole long way down, as the elevator stops on each floor, and at each stop someone connected to his brother gets on to give Will a piece to a bigger story than the one he thinks he knows. A story that might never know an END…if Will gets off that elevator. Told in short, fierce staccato narrative verse, Long Way Down is a fast and furious, dazzlingly brilliant look at teenage gun violence, as could only be told by Jason Reynolds.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Citizens United Henry McLeish, 2017-08-10 The early years of the 21st century have erupted into a spectacular period of seismic political unrest which challenges our sense of purpose, shreds our certainties, and questions our path to progress. Volatile and angry citizens are contesting social democracy and progressive politics. It is a wake-up call to those who believe that humans are capable of achieving much higher levels of social, economic, political and cultural wellbeing. The future of Scotland is at a crossroads as Brexit creates more complexity and confusion. The SNP has lost momentum and a window of opportunity has emerged for a wider and deeper debate about the current political situation both in Scotland and the UK. What's the matter with democracy in Britain and how can we make citizenship meaningful in such turbulent times? How is populism changing how we view politics, political parties and democracy? Europe is our future - how can we stay in the EU? How can we address the anger, mistrust and fear currently dominating the public discourse and bitterly dividing Britain? What is Scotland's future role within the UK? How do we develop a more inspired politics where the citizen is valued and taken seriously? This book examines the most pressing issues facing us today in the context of the political and constitutional upheaval that is coursing throughout Western democracies. The shock politics of Trump and Brexit demonstrate that the political landscape has changed and we face an uncertain future. Henry McLeish offers a new approach to get us out of the mess we're in.
  understanding citizens united answer key: So Much for Democracy United States Supreme Court, 2009-10 This is the complete printed text of the opinions in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the Supreme Court decision that President Obama specifically singled out for sharp criticism in the 2010 State of the Union address because of the wide latitude that it gives to corporations to flood political campaigns with money. There's no substitute for reading the full text of vital documents. This is the most readable format for doing so.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Protecting the right to freedom of expression under the European Convention on Human Rights Bychawska-Siniarska, Dominika, 2017-08-04 European Convention on Human Rights – Article 10 – Freedom of expression 1. Everyone has the right to freedom of expression. This right shall include freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. This article shall not prevent States from requiring the licensing of broadcasting, television or cinema enterprises. 2. The exercise of these freedoms, since it carries with it duties and responsibilities, may be subject to such formalities, conditions, restrictions or penalties as are prescribed by law and are necessary in a democratic society, in the interests of national security, territorial integrity or public safety, for the prevention of disorder or crime, for the protection of health or morals, for the protection of the reputation or rights of others, for preventing the disclosure of information received in confidence, or for maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary. In the context of an effective democracy and respect for human rights mentioned in the Preamble to the European Convention on Human Rights, freedom of expression is not only important in its own right, but it also plays a central part in the protection of other rights under the Convention. Without a broad guarantee of the right to freedom of expression protected by independent and impartial courts, there is no free country, there is no democracy. This general proposition is undeniable. This handbook is a practical tool for legal professionals from Council of Europe member states who wish to strengthen their skills in applying the European Convention on Human Rights and the case law of the European Court of Human Rights in their daily work.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Permanent Supportive Housing National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice, Policy and Global Affairs, Science and Technology for Sustainability Program, Committee on an Evaluation of Permanent Supportive Housing Programs for Homeless Individuals, 2018-08-11 Chronic homelessness is a highly complex social problem of national importance. The problem has elicited a variety of societal and public policy responses over the years, concomitant with fluctuations in the economy and changes in the demographics of and attitudes toward poor and disenfranchised citizens. In recent decades, federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the philanthropic community have worked hard to develop and implement programs to solve the challenges of homelessness, and progress has been made. However, much more remains to be done. Importantly, the results of various efforts, and especially the efforts to reduce homelessness among veterans in recent years, have shown that the problem of homelessness can be successfully addressed. Although a number of programs have been developed to meet the needs of persons experiencing homelessness, this report focuses on one particular type of intervention: permanent supportive housing (PSH). Permanent Supportive Housing focuses on the impact of PSH on health care outcomes and its cost-effectiveness. The report also addresses policy and program barriers that affect the ability to bring the PSH and other housing models to scale to address housing and health care needs.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Importing Into the United States U. S. Customs and Border Protection, 2015-10-12 Explains process of importing goods into the U.S., including informed compliance, invoices, duty assessments, classification and value, marking requirements, etc.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Community-based Rehabilitation World Health Organization, 2010 Volume numbers determined from Scope of the guidelines, p. 12-13.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Oration by Frederick Douglass. Delivered on the Occasion of the Unveiling of the Freedmen's Monument in Memory of Abraham Lincoln, in Lincoln Park, Washington, D.C., April 14th, 1876, with an Appendix Frederick Douglass, 2024-06-14 Reprint of the original, first published in 1876.
  understanding citizens united answer key: 1300 MBE Practice Questions and Answers Naomi Stacey Lloyds , 1300 MBE Practice Questions and Answers: Your Ultimate MBE Exam Prep Guide with Detailed Answers and Explanations Preparing for the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) can be a daunting task, but with the right resources, you can approach it with confidence and success. 1300 MBE Practice Questions and Answers: Your Ultimate MBE Exam Prep Guide with Detailed Answers and Explanations is an essential tool for any aspiring attorney looking to master the MBE and secure their future in the legal profession. This comprehensive prep guide offers: Extensive Practice Questions: With 1300 practice questions, this book provides extensive coverage across all subjects tested on the MBE, including Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law and Procedure, Evidence, Real Property, Torts, and Civil Procedure. Each question is carefully designed to reflect the format and difficulty level of actual MBE questions. Detailed Answers and Explanations: Each practice question is accompanied by a detailed explanation of the correct answer. These explanations not only clarify the reasoning behind the answer but also provide insights into the relevant legal principles and how to apply them. This feature is crucial for deepening your understanding and enhancing your problem-solving skills. Exam-Oriented Approach: The questions in this book are crafted to mimic the style and complexity of the MBE, helping you become familiar with the exam format and reducing exam-day anxiety. Regular practice with these questions will improve your test-taking strategies and time management skills. Current and Relevant Content: This guide is updated to reflect the latest changes and trends in MBE question styles and topics, ensuring that your preparation is aligned with the current standards and expectations of the exam. Comprehensive Study Aid: Whether you are studying on your own or supplementing a bar review course, this book is an invaluable resource. It is structured to facilitate self-study, allowing you to track your progress and identify areas where you need further review. Who This Book is For: Law Students: Preparing for the bar exam while balancing other academic and personal responsibilities. First-Time Takers: Looking for a thorough and reliable resource to ensure they are well-prepared for the MBE. Repeat Takers: Seeking additional practice and detailed explanations to address weak areas and improve their scores. Legal Educators: Supplementing their teaching materials with high-quality practice questions and explanations. How to Use This Book: Study Consistently: Establish a regular study schedule and stick to it. Consistent practice is key to mastering the material. Review Thoroughly: After answering each question, review the detailed explanations to understand your mistakes and reinforce your knowledge. Simulate Exam Conditions: Periodically take timed practice exams to build your stamina and get used to the pressure of the actual exam. Final Thoughts: Success on the MBE requires more than just memorizing legal principles; it requires understanding how to apply them in a timed, high-pressure environment. 1300 MBE Practice Questions and Answers: Your Ultimate MBE Exam Prep Guide with Detailed Answers and Explanations provides the tools you need to build your confidence and competence, paving the way for your success on exam day.
  understanding citizens united answer key: Governments of North America Big Book Gr. 5-8 Brenda Rollins, 2007-03-01 Here is everything you need to know about the very different Governments of North America with our 3-book BUNDLE. Start off by breaking down the complicated system that is the American Government. Make a list of the main ideas for each of the amendments to the Bill of Rights. Move through the systems of government to discover how a bill becomes a law. Then, travel back to the Confederation to see how the Canadian Government was born. Read the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Understand that Canada is made up of provinces and territories, each with its own government. Finally, visit a country's rich history of fighting for liberty and independence that led to the Mexican Government. Read the presidential oath of office. Gain an understanding of the different political parties in the United Mexican States. Each concept is paired with writing tasks. Aligned to your State Standards and written to Bloom's Taxonomy, additional crossword, word search, comprehension quiz and answer key are also included.