Americans & Their Political Values

A series of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture notes on Americans and their political values.

Government

Refers to institutions and procedures through which a territory and its people are ruled.

Politics

Refers to conflict over the leadership, structure, and policies of governments.

Public goods

Goods that citizens all need but probably cannot provide adequately for themselves, such as defense against foreign aggression and maintenance of public order.

Autocracy

A form of government in which a single individual rules, like a king, queen, or dictator.

Oligarchy

A form of government in which a small group controls most of the governing decisions.

Democracy

A system of rule that permits citizens to play a significant part in the governmental process, usually through the election of key public officials.

Constitutional government

A system of rule in which formal and effective limits are placed on the powers of government.

Public opinion poll

A survey that gauges the beliefs, attitudes, and opinions of a population regarding government and political issues.

Political efficacy

The belief that ordinary citizens can affect what government does.

Disinformation

False information shared intentionally to reach a political goal, which complicates the process of acquiring valid political information.

Political knowledge

Possessing information about the formal institutions of government, political actors, and political issues, which is crucial for political participation.

Vote

To express one's opinion or choice in a formal decision-making process.

Affirmative Action

Policies that seek to address past discrimination by providing targeted opportunities to underrepresented groups.

Social justice

The just allocation of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

Political participation

Any activity that influences the selection of political leaders or the policies they pursue.

Civil rights

The rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.

Economic inequality

The unequal distribution of wealth and income within a society.

Equality of opportunity

The ideal that all individuals should have the same chances to succeed and achieve their potential.