Chapter 8 Flashcards
Political Culture
Widely shared beliefs and values about how citizens relate to government
Political Socialization
Process by which citizens acquire a sense of political identity
Opinion Leaders
Individuals held in great respect because of their position, expertise, or personality
Public Opinion
Collective opinion in matters relating to politics, public issues, or the making of public policy
Straw Polls
Interviews/surveys with samples of citizens used to estimate the feelings and beliefs of the entire population on a certain matter
Sampling
Those chosen to participate in the poll must be representative of the general population and chosen at random
Sampling Errors
Occurs when the results of the survey can lead to misinformation and error
Ideology
Consistent set of beliefs (Political, Economic, Social Issues)
Political Ideology
Set of beliefs about politics and public policy
Radical
One who favors extreme change in existing social, Economic, or political order
Liberal
One who supports active government in promoting individual welfare and supporting civil rights, and accepts peaceful political and social change within the existing political system
Moderate
Political ideology that falls between liberal and conservative, tolerant of others’ political opinions
Conservative
Promotes limited government role in helping individuals economically, supports traditional values/lifestyles, favors more active role for government in promoting national security, and approaches change cautiously
Reactionary
One who promotes a return to previous state of affairs (Social Order/Government that existed earlier in history)
Majority Rule/Minority Rights
Although Democracy is based upon majority rule, minority rights must be guaranteed (protections and freedoms provided to individuals/groups not part of the majority population)
Individual Freedoms
The fundamental freedoms and protections that are guaranteed to each person
