Political Ideology Basics

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms and concepts related to political ideology as presented in the lecture notes.

Political Ideology

A collection of beliefs about morality, economics, societal efficiency, how society should function, and the proper role of government.

Liberal–Conservative Spectrum

A traditional one-dimensional line placing liberal (left) views on one end and conservative (right) views on the other to represent ideological positions.

Graphic Ideology Grid

A visual tool—often two-dimensional—that plots political beliefs to capture more nuance than the simple left-right line.

Ideological Consistency (Constraint)

The degree to which a person’s political beliefs align logically; generally present but sometimes marked by internal contradictions.

Left-Wing (Liberal)

Supports a more active governmental role in economic and social spheres, including funding social programs to address societal problems.

Right-Wing (Conservative)

Advocates limited government in economic affairs, emphasizes individual responsibility, and seeks to uphold traditional moral values.

Libertarian

Favors minimal government intervention in both economic and personal matters, believing citizens should be largely free to provide for themselves.

Government Intervention

The involvement of governmental authority and resources to address societal issues; levels of support vary by ideology.

Republican Party

A major U.S. political party closely aligned with conservative ideology and right-of-center policy preferences.

Liberal position on economy

-Regulation of businesses to protect workers and the environment

-markets need regulation to function efficiently

-taxation of business and wealthy

Conservative position on economy

Government should minimally regulate the economy

Reduce taxes for the wealthy to stimulate the economy

Federalism

C-Favors states Rights

L-favors federal power

National security

L-Favors reducing military spending and supports involvement in global affairs, diplomacy, and Foreign aid

C-Increase military spending support limitations on foreign aid

Social welfare programs

L-increase spending

C-Reduced spending

Education

Increased funding of public education-L

C-Support for private and religious education

Immigration

L- supports legal immigration and citizenship path for certain groups of undocumented immigrants

C-reduced legal immigration and opposes citizenship path for undocumented immigrants

Abortion rights

L- pro-choice

C-Pro life

Civil rights

L-favors expanded civil rights, protections, and affirmative action

C-favors limited civil, right protections, and opposes affirmative action

Environmental protection

L-Favors regulations to protect the environment and combat climate change

C-This climate change as Insignificant problem

Gun control

L-favors restrictions on gun purchases, and ownership

C- opposes restrictions on gun purchases, and ownership

Healthcare

L-supports expanded access in government, involvement, and healthcare

C-Favors free market healthcare system with minimal government involvement