unit 4 ap gov

Individualism

The belief that individuals should have the freedom to make their own choices and be responsible for their own success.

Equality of Opportunity

Everyone should have an equal chance to succeed, regardless of their background.

Free Enterprise

An economic system in which individuals and businesses can privately own property, compete, and make economic decisions with limited government interference.

Rule of Law

Everyone, including government officials, must follow the law.

Limited Government

The belief that government power should be restricted to prevent it from becoming too powerful.

Political Socialization

The process through which individuals develop their political beliefs, values, attitudes, and opinions.

Family

Family members influence a person's political beliefs and values.

Schools

Educational institutions influence political knowledge and attitudes.

Peaks

Friends and people within someone's age group influence their political opinions.

Media

Television, newspapers, social media, and other communication platforms influence political opinions.

Social Environments & Organizations

Communities, religious organizations, workplaces, clubs, and other social groups influence political beliefs.

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness of countries through trade, technology, communication, culture, and politics.

Public Opinion

The collective attitudes and beliefs of the public about political issues, government policies, candidates, and leaders.

Benchmark Poll

An initial poll conducted early in a political campaign.

Tracking Poll

A poll conducted repeatedly over time to measure changes in public opinion.

Entrance Poll

A survey conducted as voters enter a polling location.

Exit Poll

A survey conducted after voters leave a polling location.

Sampling Techniques

Methods researchers use to select a smaller group of people to represent a larger population.

Sampling Error

The difference between the results of a poll and the actual opinions of the entire population due to surveying only a sample.

Impact of Public Opinion on Policymaking

Public attitudes and preferences can influence the laws and policies government officials create.

Democratic Party

One of the two major political parties in the United States that generally supports a more active role for government in addressing social and economic issues.

Republican Party

One of the two major political parties in the United States that generally supports limited government involvement in the economy and traditional social values.

Liberal

An ideology that generally supports government involvement to address social and economic inequalities and protect individual rights.

Conservative

An ideology that generally supports traditional values, free-market economics, and a more limited role for government.

Libertarian

An ideology that emphasizes individual freedom and believes government involvement should be minimized in both economic and personal matters.

Free Market Economics

An economic system in which businesses and consumers make most economic decisions with minimal government interference.

Keynesian Economics

An economic theory that argues the government should intervene in the economy to manage economic fluctuations.

Supply-Side Economics

An economic theory that argues reducing taxes and regulations on businesses and individuals can encourage production and economic growth.

Monetary Policy

Actions taken by the Federal Reserve to influence the economy by controlling interest rates and the money supply.

Fiscal Policy

Government decisions involving taxation and government spending to influence the economy.

Federal Reserve

The central banking system of the United States, responsible for managing monetary policy and helping maintain a stable economy.