POLS 1100 Final Exam Flashcards
Review all terms.
Affirmative Action
Policies designed to increase opportunities for historically excluded groups in areas such as employment and education by considering those group memberships in decision processes.
Bill of Rights
The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, guaranteeing specific rights and liberties to the public
Bicameral
A legislative body composed of two separate chambers or houses, typically a lower and an upper house, as seen in the U.S. Congress.
Filibuster
A procedural tactic in legislative bodies aimed at extending debate on a bill to delay or block its passage.
Gerrymandering
The practice of redrawing electoral district boundaries to favor one party or class.
Impeachment
A formal process in which officials are accused of unlawful activity, potentially leading to removal from office.
Pork Barrel Legislation
Laws passed by Congress that fund specific projects and their locations within particular constituencies, often seen as a way to gain favor with local voters.
Veto
A constitutional right to reject a decision or proposal made by a law-making body.
Executive Order
Directives issued by the President of the United States that have the force of law, without the need for Congressional approval.
Inherent Powers
Powers held by the President that are not explicitly specified in the Constitution but are deemed necessary to perform the duties of the office.
War Powers Resolution
A federal law intended to check the President’s power to commit the U.S. to an armed conflict without the consent of Congress.
Judicial Review
The power of courts to assess whether a law or government regulation is consistent with the Constitution.
Miranda Rule
The requirement that police inform suspects of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney, before questioning.
Supremacy Clause
A clause in the U.S. Constitution stating that federal law takes precedence over state laws and constitutions.
Public Policy
Principles and laws enacted by government to advance societal welfare.
Public Opinion
The collective attitudes and beliefs of the public on various issues.
Citizen Journalism
News reporting conducted by ordinary individuals who are not professional journalists, typically using the internet and digital tools.
Digital Citizens
Individuals who use the internet regularly and effectively, engaging in society, politics, and government.
Political Action Committees / Super PACs
Organizations that collect and spend money to elect or defeat political candidates. Super PACs can raise unlimited sums from corporations, unions, associations, and individuals.
Interest Group
Organizations formed to influence public policy in favor of the interests of their members.
Ballot Initiative
A process that allows citizens to propose and vote on potential laws directly.
Lobbying
The act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in the government, often by interest groups or lobbyists.