Political Socialization and Party Ideologies

Socialist

Advocates for equality between rich and poor.

Populist

Fiscally liberal, socially conservative ideology.

LERF

A term not defined in notes.

Libertarian

Fiscally conservative, socially liberal viewpoint.

Communist

Supports extreme government regulation and control.

Donocratic

A term not defined in notes.

Moderate

Combines ideas from both liberalism and conservatism.

Conservative

Believes in less government involvement in society.

Fascist

Opposes differing ideas with extreme government regulation.

Democrat

Promotes strong government to provide public services.

Republican

Emphasizes individual responsibility and self-reliance.

Reactionary

Resists change, often using violence.

Reinforcing Cleavages

Divisions in society that unify groups.

Cross-Cutting Cleavages

Divisions within a party creating subgroups.

Political Ideology

Ideas on how society should function.

Political Party

Group working together to achieve common goals.

Plank

A candidate's specific stance on an issue.

Platform

Collective stance of a political party on issues.

Political Parties Goals

Win elections, operate government, implement public policy.

Primary Election

Used to select candidates within a party.

Open Primary

Any voter can participate in the election.

Closed Primary

Only party members can vote in the election.

Electoral College

System for electing the President via state votes.

Faithless Elector

Elector who does not vote according to pledge.

Two Party System

Political system dominated by two major parties.

Multi-Party System

Coalition government representing diverse viewpoints.

Interest Groups

Organized groups influencing policy makers.

Third Parties

Minor parties that can influence major party policies.