AP Gov Ch. 4 - American Political Culture

Key terms and concepts

Americanism

Identity is closely tied to political opinion and culture in America, more so than in other countries.

Political culture

A patterned and sustained way of thinking about how political and economic life should be carried out.

Political efficacy

Citizens’ belief that they can understand and influence politics, and that the government should respond to that.

Economic individualism

Free enterprise with limited restrictions; US tolerates a larger gap in wealth than in some European nations.

Free enterprise

The rule of private interests with little government interference over the economic system.

Civic duty

Belief that one has an obligation to participate in politics.

Civil society

A collection of volunteer groups, foundations, organizations, non-profits, etc. that work to ensure civil cooperation and keep the government accountable.

Culture war

Belief in a division between two major groups in America over which standards govern American society.

Conservative

Belief in limited government and individual liberty above all else.

Mistrust in government

Increase in loss of trust in government officials over the last century.

Political tolerance

Describes how much one side will tolerate another side’s political viewpoints.

Civic competence

Belief that one can affect government politics.

Class consciousness

Understanding of one's socioeconomic group and how it differs from other socioeconomic groups.

Moderate

Blend of both liberal and conservative viewpoints, emphasizing compromise.

Liberal

Belief in progressive government policies, focusing on an active government that is ever-changing according to the times.

Orthodox

Mainly tied to religious beliefs, prioritizing morality above all else.

Progressive

Emphasis on personal freedom and solving social problems. Rules must adapt to changing times.

Limited government

Belief in a smaller government with less involvement in the economy and public affairs.

Perception gap

The difference between what people THINK the other side thinks versus what they ACTUALLY think. Often leads to issues and misunderstandings.

Political Tolerance

The acceptance of differing views and beliefs, even if one does not agree with them. It is essential for a functioning democracy.

Fiorina

The culture war doesn’t exist, it is a tool used by politicians.

Abramowitz

people choose their political party based on moral issues.

Liberty

Rights, people can choose what they want to do as long as they don’t harm others. Freedom with responsibility.

Equality

Americans value opportunity of opportunity, not opportunity of outcome. Equal vote, equal chances to participate and succeed.

Democracy

Representative form of government where officials are accountable to the people who vote.

Individual responsibility

People are responsible for their own actions and wellbeing, “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” mentality.