In this case, we must brush away the dirt (the people, personalities, drama, spin, that fills the news and so much social media) so we can then study the history, documents, principles, institutions, laws, etc., that serve as the foundation for everything that happens in American government and politics.  After we have become more knowledgeable of the foundation (seeing beyond and below the “dirt”) we will be able to discuss, describe, and interpret, what we are observing

Far too many people view politics in much the same way as they do when watching a show like Game of Thrones, House of Cards, or The Bachelor.  In other words, they focus on the drama, the conflict, the personalities, etc., and very often choose sides as if being a cheerleader/spectator is enough.  Although engagement and participation are important to American government and politics, it’s not enough–not for the individual that wants to understand what they are observing and contributing to.