Copy of UNIT 4 - Party Ideology and Beliefs

Political culture

Shared values, beliefs, and expectations Americans hold about government and citizenship.

Free enterprise

An economic system based on private ownership, competition, and profit motives with minimal government interference.

Individualism

The belief that individuals are responsible for their own well-being and should be able to make their own choices.

Equality of opportunity

Individuals should have the same, unprejudiced chance to succeed and use their talents.

Rule of law

The principle that government and citizens are bound by laws applied consistently; supports constitutional limits and due process.

Political socialization

The process by which people develop political attitudes, values, and beliefs over time.

Generational effects

The long-lasting impact of major historical, social, or political events on the political attitudes of a specific group.

Opinion poll

Surveys that estimate what a larger population thinks by questioning a smaller sample.

Exit poll

Scientific surveys conducted on Election Day to predict election outcomes by interviewing voters after they leave polling stations.

Tracking poll

Polls conducted regularly to measure changes in public opinion or candidate support over time.

Sampling error

A measure of the accuracy of a public opinion poll, representing the difference between sample results and the true population value.

Focus group

A small, demographically diverse group of people brought together to discuss opinions on candidates, policies, or political issues.

Public opinion

The distribution of individual preferences about political issues, candidates, or institutions within a specific population.

Scientific polling

A tool to measure public opinion using structured surveys and statistical techniques to ensure accuracy and representation.

Democratic Party

Advocates for a stronger government role in regulating the economy and supporting social welfare programs.

Liberal

Someone who advocates for increased government intervention in the economy to promote equality and social welfare.

Republican Party

Emphasizes limited government intervention in the economy, free-market capitalism, and traditional social values.

Conservative

An individual who advocates for limited government intervention in the economy and lower taxes.

Libertarian

Someone who advocates for minimal government intervention in both economic and personal matters.

Supply Side

A conservative fiscal philosophy aimed at driving economic growth by reducing taxes and deregulation.

Keynesian theory

government intervention is necessary to stabilize the economy during recessions.

Monetary policy

The Federal Reserve’s management of the money supply and interest rates to influence the economy.

Fiscal policy

The government's use of taxation and spending to influence the economy, primarily managed by Congress and the President.

Federal Reserve

An independent regulatory commission that uses monetary policy to manage inflation and employment.