AP Comp Gov Unit 1

Comparative method

Examining the same phenomenon in several cases and reaching conclusions

Causation

When a change i one variable precipitates a change in another variable

Correlation

An apparent connection between variables

Empirical Statement

An assertion of fact that can be proven

Normative Statement

A value judgement usually in the form of a should or ought statement

Quantitative Data

observations made using statistical techniques, which are often conveyed in charts, graphs, tables, and maps.

Qualitative Data

Text-based descriptions, including explanations of how government and political institutions function.

Source analysis

reading and analyzing text

Human Development Index (HDI)

An aggregate measure of life expectancy, education, and per capita income.

Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

The total value of goods and services produced in a country in a year

GDP per capita

Gross domestic product divided by population

GDP growth rate

The percentage of GDP growth over a period of time.

Gini Index

A measure of income inequality within a country