I just read an interesting article in Scientific American that described gains and losses in U.S. literacy rates in the past decade. The article showed a detailed analysis by race, ethnicity, gender, and age groups -- basically a summary of the findings in these two papers (cited in the endnotes):
A First Look at the Literacy of Americas Adults in the 21st Century
http://nces.ed.gov/NAAL/PDF/2006470.PDF The Twin Challenges of Mediocrity and Inequality:
Literacy in the U.S. from an International Perspective
http://www.ets.org/Media/Research/pdf/PICTWIN.pdf=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
That reminded me of a debate about the education/literacy of members of various political groups. In the press, the "red states" (predominately conservative/Republican) are often painted as slow-thinking, poorly-educated dumbbells. In one discussion with a liberal friend at an election-eve party, my buddy was certain that if only I would *read* more, and if I understood the situation better, I'd change my opinions... and I think that is a common viewpoint among "the blues."
So, I stumble across this literacy assessment and I look and look for anything that might show literacy rates *by political affiliation* and I can't find it.
I do know that as a general rule, black and Hispanic U.S. citizens tend to vote in the liberal/Democrat block, and this article puts members of these ethnic groups well below average on literacy rates. But since these are minorities, it would be statistically incorrect to translate that information across to political affiliation.
My question:
Can you point me to verifiable/reputable information that breaks down educational status and literacy rates by political affiliation?
Also:
Imagine yourself in a friendly political debate, warmed, perhaps, by a glass or two of a hearty Bordeaux, when someone with a different viewpoint tries to make the point that you (and your group) are basically stupider and less well-read than him (and his group). How do you respond?
