Chapter 1-2 Terms And definitions Flashcards
(29 cards)
Authority
The recognized right of an individual, or institution, to exercise power (see power)
Bureaucratic Rule
The tendencies of large-scale organizations to develop into the bureaucratic form, with the effect those administrators make key policy decisions.
Capitalism
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.
Constitutionalism
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).
Corporate Power
The notion that wealthy and well-connected individuals exercise power over certain areas of public policy
Communism
An economic system in which the government owns most, or all, major industries for overall management of the economy.
Democracy
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).
Diversity
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.
Elites
Those persons who have political power and influence due to them having a fair amount of political resources (money) and skills.
Elitism
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.
Free-Market System
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.
Gate Keepers
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.
Government
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.
Ideology
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.
Individualism
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.
Liberty=(i. e: “Your “Liberties”)
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.
Legitimacy
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.
Majoritarianism
The idea that the majority prevails, not only in elections at election time, but also in determining public policy.
Masses
Refers to those persons who have no political power and influence due to them having no large amounts of political resources (money) and skills.
Mayflower Compact
(Written & signed on Nov., 11, 1628). It served as the first agreement for “self-governance” that was ever enforced in America.
Pluralism
A “theory” of American politics which holds that society’s interests are substantially represented through the activities of groups (not individuals).
Public Policies
Decisions by government to pursue particular courses of action.
Political Culture
The characteristics, and deep-seated beliefs, of a particular people.
Political System
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.
