Final Flashcards
What are the three levels of the court system?
Trial courts (original jurisdiction), appellate courts (review decisions), and courts of last resort (final appeal).
How does federalism relate to the judiciary?
Federal courts interpret and apply federal laws, balancing power between state and federal jurisdictions.
Why do federal courts take cases?
Cases involving federal laws or the Constitution, and disputes between states or citizens of different states.
What is the writ of certiorari?
A Supreme Court order to review lower court decisions, granting discretionary review.
What did Marbury v. Madison establish
It established judicial review, allowing courts to declare laws unconstitutional.
What is the difference between originalism and the living constitution?
Originalism interprets the Constitution as intended, while the living constitution allows for adaptable interpretation.
How does ideology influence court decisions?
Judges’ personal beliefs impact decisions, affecting constitutional interpretation.
What is public opinion?
Aggregated views of a population on political issues
How does self-interest influence public opinion?
Personal concerns shape individuals’ political views.
What is the role of socialization in forming public opinion?
Socialization through family, education, and media shapes long-term beliefs.
How do values influence public opinion?
Moral and ethical principles guide individuals’ political views.
How do personality traits like openness to ambiguity influence public opinion?
Individual differences in personality traits impact worldviews and political opinions.
How does political knowledge influence the formation of public opinion?
Informed citizens have more nuanced views, and education enhances understanding.
What are heuristics in the context of public opinion?
Mental shortcuts used in decision-making to simplify complex information.
How do framing and agenda-setting influence public opinion?
Media framing shapes perception, and agenda-setting influences public priorities.
What role do political parties play in mobilization?
Parties organize and motivate voters, influencing political participation.
How do political parties regulate ambition?
Parties structure competition and provide a pathway for individuals to seek office.
How do political parties help resolve collective choice problems in government?
Parties provide a mechanism for aggregating and representing diverse interests.
What is party identification?
Personal affiliation with a political party that influences voting behavior
How does party identification affect attitudes toward government and policies?
It shapes perceptions and preferences on various political issues.
What is affective polarization?
Emotional attachment and hostility between members of opposing political parties.
How does partisan identity relate to lifestyle?
Partisan identity can influence lifestyle choices and social interactions.