Vocabulary Chapter 1 Flashcards
What is the meaning of Political science?
The systematic study of government and politics
What is the meaning of Politics?
The process through which a society settles its conflicts
What is the meaning of Power?
The ability of persons, groups, or institutions to influence political developments
What is the meaning of Democracy?
A form of government in which the people govern, either directly or through elected representatives
What is the meaning of Majoritarianism?
The idea that the majority prevails not only in elections but also in policy determination
What is the meaning of Pluralism?
A theory of American politics that holds that society’s interests are substantially represented through power exercised by groups
What is the meaning of Authority?
The recognized right of officials to exercise power as a result of the positions they hold
What is the meaning of Constitutionalism?
The idea that there are definable limits on the rightful power of a government over its citizens
What is the meaning of Judicial action?
The use of courts of law as a means by which individuals protect their rights and settle their conflicts
What is the meaning of Free Market?
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
What is the meaning of Corporate power?
The power that corporations exercise in their effort to influence government and maintain control of the workplace
What is the meaning of Elitism?
The notion that wealthy and well-connected individuals exercise power over certain areas of public policy
What is the meaning of Public policies?
Decisions by government to pursue particular courses of action
What is the meaning of Political thinking?
The careful gathering and sifting of information in the process of forming a knowledgeable view about a political issue
