Abstract
Political Memoirs are topping the charts of the New York Times Bestseller Lists, but what are these memoirs telling us or not telling us? Political memoirs are now being written more and more frequently before a candidate even runs for office. These texts serve as personal statements from candidates that are hoping to be accepted and voted into office by their readers. While it would make sense that politics were central focal points of these pieces, it seems the authors focus less on policy and more on who they are personally. In politics today, it seems that ideological differences between candidates matter less than the way in which the candidate presents himself or herself to the voting public; the pre-presidential memoir is a perfect example and showcases how the rhetoric used, the connection that is established with the voter, and the overall likability of the candidate are more important factors than the actual ideology of the candidate.
Semester/Year of Award
Fall 2012
Mentor
Steven Barracca
Mentor Department Affiliation
Government
Access Options
Restricted Access Thesis
Document Type
Bachelor Thesis
Degree Name
Honors Scholars
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Department
Government and Economics
Department Name when Degree Awarded
Government
Recommended Citation
Gosnell, Megan E., "The Political Memoir Used as a Powerful Campaign Tool: A Deeper Look into President Barack Obama's Memoir The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream and Mitt Romney's No Apology: The Case for American Greatness" (2012). Honors Theses. 64.
https://encompass.eku.edu/honors_theses/64
