Chapter 1-2 Terms And definitions

Question 1

Authority

Answer 1

The recognized right of an individual, or institution, to exercise power (see power)

Question 2

Bureaucratic Rule

Answer 2

The tendencies of large-scale organizations to develop into the bureaucratic form, with the effect those administrators make key policy decisions.

Question 3

Capitalism

Answer 3

1) An economic system based on a “free-market” principle that allows that government only a “limited role” in determining how economic costs and benefits will be allocated.
2) An economic system based on the idea that government should interfere with economic transactions as little as possible. It is the principle of “Free enterprise” and “self-reliance” that are the collective and individual principles that underpin capitalism.

Question 4

Constitutionalism

Answer 4

The idea that there are definable limits on the rightful power of government over its citizens. -The principle of limiting governmental power by a written charter. Our Constitution restricts, or limits the power of the states. -It also establishes that basic idea that no official, no matter how high is above the law (AKA: The Rule of Law).

Question 5

Corporate Power

Answer 5

The notion that wealthy and well-connected individuals exercise power over certain areas of public policy

Question 6

Communism

Answer 6

An economic system in which the government owns most, or all, major industries for overall management of the economy.

Question 7

Democracy

Answer 7

1) A form of government in which the people govern, either directly or through elected representatives.
2) A system of government (in America) which derives its consent and will based on the will of the majority (i.e.: the citizens who vote).

Question 8

Diversity

Answer 8

The principle that individual, and group differences, should be respected and that these differences are themselves a source of strength, as well as a source of national strength.

Question 9

Elites

Answer 9

Those persons who have political power and influence due to them having a fair amount of political resources (money) and skills.

Question 10

Elitism

Answer 10

The view that the United States is essentially run by a tiny elite (composed of the wealthy or well-connected individuals) who control public policy through both direct and indirect means.

Question 11

Free-Market System

Answer 11

An economic system based on the idea that government should interfere with economic transactions as little as possible. “Free enterprise” and “Self-reliance” are the collective and individual principles that underpin free markets.

Question 12

Gate Keepers

Answer 12

Those certain individuals, groups, or institutions that are responsible to control the flow, blocking, or facilitation of political demands to the government due to their access, or position.

Question 13

Government

Answer 13

1) Refers to those institutions, processes, and rules that facilitate control of a particular area, (i.e.: its inhabitants/its citizens).
2) The political and administrative organization of a state, nation or locality.

Question 14

Ideology

Answer 14

1) A “strongly held set of ideas/ ideals” concerning the proper political and economic system under which people should live.
2) The term is used interchangeably with the term “political ideas,” also refers to the kind of government people think they should have.

Question 15

Individualism

Answer 15

A) The idea that people should take the initiative, be self-sufficient, and accumulate the material advantages necessary for their own wellbeing.
B) A commitment to personal initiative and self-sufficiencyand it asserts that people, if free to pursue their own path and if not unfairly burdened, can attain their full potential.

Question 16

Liberty=(i. e: “Your “Liberties”)

Answer 16

The principle that whereby individuals should be free to act and think as they choose, provided that they do not infringe unreasonably on the rights and freedoms of others.

Question 17

Legitimacy

Answer 17

The belief on the part of the people that they should obey and follow the decisions/policies of government because it is the right, moral, and/or appropriate thing to do. It is a by-product of the political socialization process.

Question 18

Majoritarianism

Answer 18

The idea that the majority prevails, not only in elections at election time, but also in determining public policy.

Question 19

Masses

Answer 19

Refers to those persons who have no political power and influence due to them having no large amounts of political resources (money) and skills.

Question 20

Mayflower Compact

Answer 20

(Written & signed on Nov., 11, 1628). It served as the first agreement for “self-governance” that was ever enforced in America.

Question 21

Pluralism

Answer 21

A “theory” of American politics which holds that society’s interests are substantially represented through the activities of groups (not individuals).

Question 22

Public Policies

Answer 22

Decisions by government to pursue particular courses of action.

Question 23

Political Culture

Answer 23

The characteristics, and deep-seated beliefs, of a particular people.

Question 24

Political System

Answer 24

Refers to the various governmental and political components of American Government. The parts are separate, but they connect with each other, affecting how each performs.

Question 25

Politics

Answer 25

1) The process through which society makes it governing decisions.
2) The competition for political power and influence.
3) The process by which it is determined whose values will prevail in society.

Question 26

Party Polarization (or partisan polarization)

Answer 26

The condition in which opinions and actions in response to political issues and situations divides substantially along political/partisan party lines.

Question 27

Political Socialization

Answer 27

The learning process by which people acquire their political opinions, beliefs, and values.Refers to the ways in which we learn about our government and our political system.

Question 28

Republic (i.e.: A Republican Form of Government), or A “Representative Democracy”

Answer 28

A system in which the people participate in the decision-making process of government not directly, but indirectly, through the election of officials & politicians to represent their interests.

Question 29

Pluralism

Answer 29

A theory of American that holds that society’s interests are substantially represented through the activities of the group.