Chapter 1: Spirit of American Politics Day 2 Flashcards
american decisions are shaped by what type of events?
liberty (freedom), self-rule, individualism, limited government, (checks & balances), american dream, equality, rights to religion (christianity)
definition of institutions
government organizations that establish rules and procdures
what is an example of a government institution
white house
what is a group or “self”
individualism
what is the rational choice theory?
when people are rational and make decisions based on their political interest
public is for what good?
the common good
what are those that can influence political outcomes
individuals
what is an example of an individual
the president
is the government involved in your private life?
yes, with you families, friends, and with individual people
when people join with others, that is what type of society?
civil
what is the government?
an institution that can make decisions for all
is government involvement needed?
yes: to a certain extent
what are some daily activities in which you experience government involvement?
volunteering, drivers license, club sports
what are some things that are used on the annual budget?
social security, medicare, medicaid, national debt, military, unemployment
the united states is a nation of what type of people?
immigrants
does the aging population in the united states have the same views and opinions as younger people?
no
who governs in a republic
the people are in charge
what are the 4 approaches to the power in america?
pluralist theory, elite theory, bureaucratic theory, social movement theory
what is the pluralist theory?
the belief that competition among all affected interest shape public policy
what is the elitist theory?
the government is dominated by a few top leaders who are wealthy and powerful (presidents)
what is the bureaucratic theory?
a true theory that the government is dominated by government workers who carry out the day to day activities
what is the social movement theory
the government is dominated by citizens when they organize and rise up (protest)
