Task Force: Create Your Own “Sacred Cows”
Congratulations!
You have been assigned by the United States Congress to present a list of policies and/or programs that should be “sacred cows.” You can choose from pre-existing programs or create new ones, but be prepared to defend each to a panel for approval. Your list will be competing against others!
Why Are We Doing This?
A program or policy is considered to be a “sacred cow” if it is regarded as untouchable because of its popularity amongst citizens. These kinds of programs and policies are normally immune from criticism or opposition. For example, Social Security is considered to be a “sacred cow” because most politicians would not consider voting to end it.
Steps:
- Before you begin, research some information about various “sacred cows” in the United States.
- What policies or programs did you find that are considered sacred cows?
- Which of these do you believe should be considered sacred cows? Which ones do you think should NOT be considered sacred cows?
- Then, try to come up with your own list of FIVE “sacred cows” (in order of priority) for the United States.
- What is your list of five sacred cows in the United States?
- Can you put the list in order of importance?
- Which one is at the top of your list? Why?
- Which one is at the bottom of your list? Why?
- How will you justify that these programs/policies should be untouchable and immune from criticism?
- Have you included any programs or policies that are NOT already in existence? Which one(s)?
- Think through the possible objections about your list of “sacred cows” that someone might have.
- Share with the group and see if you can convince them that your list of “sacred cows” should be appealing to most citizens and leaders.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- You do not have to come up with an exhaustive list of “sacred cows”. Focus on a few you are prepared to defend.
- Try to consider policies or programs that do not exist that you think should be “sacred cows.”