THE SYMBOLIC DIMENSIONS OF THE PRESIDENCY: AN INTERACTION PERSPECTIVE

ROBERT EDWARD DENTON, Purdue University

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to present a theoretical description of the Presidency from an interaction perspective. More specifically, the focus of the study is on three levels of interaction involving the Presidency which include: individuals of the general public, the general public or society, and specific office holders. The following considerations evolve from investigating the three levels of interaction: how public perceptions and expectations influence, mold, create, and restrict the Presidency as well as Presidential behavior; how an individual adapts and adopts the historical, symbolic, and mythical qualities of the office: and what the implications are of such an approach to the office upon society and Presidential job performance. Symbolic interaction, as a perspective, provides a framework for investigating the dynamic, symbolic, and even ephemeral nature of the office. The yields of the study are threefold. First, the study provides a greater appreciation for the Presidency as an institution. Second, the study acknowledges the importance and hence an appreciation for the symbolic nature of the office. Third, when contempories are challenging the viability of the office, the study provides a framework for assessing the current state of the Presidency and the potential effectiveness of the institution in the future. The study suggests that the apparent "crisis" of the contemporary Presidency lies within the realm of the symbolic consisting of a gap between the symbolic, mythic, Presidential persona and the harsh "realities" and "demands" of today's world. The study underscores the difficulty in attempting to alter or change an institution with symbolic importance.

Degree

Ph.D.

Subject Area

Communication

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