Chapter 1 Vocab: Political Thinking and Political Culture: Becoming a Responsible Citizen Flashcards
Critical thinking
Critical thinking involves deciding what can reasonably be believed and then using the information to reach a thoughtful conclusion.
Political science
The systematic study of government and politics.
Political culture
The characteristic and deep-seated beliefs of a particular people.
Liberty
The principle that individuals should be free to act and think as they choose, provided they do not infringe unreasonably on the rights and freedoms of others.
Individualism
The idea that people should take the initiative, be self-sufficient, and accumulate the material advantages necessary for their well-being.
Equality
The notion that all individuals are equal in their moral worth and are thereby entitled to equal treatment under the law.
Self-government
The principle that the people are the ultimate source and proper beneficiary of governing authority; in practice, a government based on majority rule.
Politics
The process through which a society settles its conflicts.
Power
The ability of persons or institutions to control policy. (See also “authority”)
Authoritarian government
A form of government in which those in power openly repress their opponents in order to stay in power.
Democracy
A form of government in which the people govern, either directly or through elected representatives.
Majoritarianism
The idea that the majority prevails not only in elections but also in determining policy.
Party (partisan) polarization
The condition in which opinions and actions in response to political issues and situations divide substantially along political party lines.
Pluralism
A theory of American politics that holds that society’s interests are substantially represented through the activities of groups.
Authority
The recognized right of officials to exercise power as a result of the positions they hold. (See also “power”)
Constitutionalism
The idea that there are lawful limits on the power of government.
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.
Corporate power
The power that corporations exercise in their effort to influence government and maintain control of the workplace.
Elitism
The notion that wealthy and well-connected individuals exercise power over certain areas of public policy.
Public policies
Decisions by government to pursue particular courses of action.
Legal action
The use of courts of law as a means by which individuals protect their rights and settle their conflicts.
