Be creative, think carefully and critically, and demonstrate your knowledge of the key issues at hand.  Draw on earlier readings when applicable (Barber and Almond for example) but focus especially on the readings assigned in the “Democracy” section of the syllabus.  Support any assertions with logic and evidence from the readings, and with examples from the New York Times.  In presenting your position, briefly consider the opposing position to demonstrate the strength of your position.  Avoid generalities by citing specific authors, articles, and quotes.  Finally, include a bibliography of the articles you cite.

Consider Robert Kaplan's title question "Was democracy just a moment?"  More precisely, will current trends in the globalization of economics, culture, and the exercise of American hegemony sustain or ultimately undermine democracy?  Finally, does your answer apply only to the world’s wealthier countries, only to the world’s poorer countries, or to both?