Illingworth, who says he does not intend to donate money during this presidential election cycle, says that he remembers participating in political campaigns in years past--and has the souvenirs to show for it.

"As I was moving, I came across a book in my book case," he said. "A little card type thing fell out and it said 'Humphey Muskey, 1968.'"

Barker Professor of Economics Stephen A. Marglin says that he has donated money to political campaigns in the past, but that he hasn't in recent memory.

"It was all some time ago, but I donated money and also contributed everything from menial stuff to providing ideas to candidates," he said.

Marglin says that he feels that his lack of participation in recent political campaigns is twofold, and that time restraints are not all to blame.

"I haven't participated recently because there are fewer candidates that I have anything in common with and because of the pressures of time," he says.

Johnson says that she also feels that the selection of candidates has discouraged her from contributing to campaigns in recent election cycles.