Political Parties, Interest Groups, & Mass Media

Question 0

Divided Government

Answer 0

A government in which one party controls the presidency while another party controls Congress. The pattern of divided government has dominated US politics since the early 1970’s.

Question 1

Political Party

Answer 1

A group of citizens who organize to win elections, hold public offices, operate governments and determine public policy.

Question 2

Interest Group

Answer 2

An organization of people whose members share views on specific interests and attempt to influence public policy to their benefit. Unlike political parties, interest groups do not elect people to office.

Question 3

Political Action Committee (PAC)

Answer 3

A committee formed by business, labor, or other interest groups to raise money and make contributions to the campaigns of political candidates whom they support.

Question 4

Free Riders

Answer 4

People who benefit from an interest group without making any contributions. Labor unions and public interest groups often have a free-rider problem because people can benefit the groups activities without joining.

Question 5

Mass Media

Answer 5

Means of communication such as newspapers, radio, television, and the internet that can reach large, widely dispersed audiences.