DEFINING PUBLIC OPINION

Public Opinion

Citizens' attitudes about political issues, leaders, institutions, and events.

Political Ideology

A system of beliefs and values regarding political issues and government.

Conservatism

A political ideology that generally advocates for limited government involvement in society and the economy.

Liberalism

A political ideology that favors more government involvement in order to create a fairer system of opportunity.

Values

Core beliefs that shape individuals' opinions on governmental issues.

Democracy

A system of government where citizens have the right to express their opinions and participate in elections.

Spectrum

A range of political ideologies that includes various beliefs from conservatism to liberalism and beyond.

Libertarianism

An ideology at the edge of American conservatism that advocates for minimal government intervention.

Democratic Socialism

An ideology at the edge of American liberalism that advocates for more government involvement to reduce inequality.

Social Programs

Government initiatives designed to provide support and services to the community.

Taxation

The process through which governments collect financial contributions from citizens to fund public services.

Individual Interests

The personal concerns or priorities of citizens, especially regarding government policies.

Free Market Economy

An economic system based on supply and demand with little government intervention.

Regulations

Rules or directives made and maintained by an authority to regulate conduct.

International Affairs

The relationships and dealings between countries around the world.

Safety Nets

Programs that provide assistance to individuals and families in need to avoid poverty.

Minority Communities

Groups of people differentiated from the majority population by race, ethnicity, or other characteristics.

Discriminatory Practices

Unfair treatment of individuals based on their group membership.

Moderates

Individuals who hold centrist beliefs, often combining aspects of both liberal and conservative ideologies.

Electoral Exercise

The process through which citizens express their opinions through voting.

Open Market

A financial market where all participants have equal access to the information needed to make trades.

Ideology,

A collection of ideas that reflect the beliefs and values of a group.

Crosscut,

When values overlap or intersect with different governmental issues.

Affiliation

The formal connection or association with a political party.

Environmental Focus

Emphasis on sustainability and the protection of the natural environment in policy-making.

Opportunity,

Access to resources, rights, and privileges within society.

Political Issues

Debates or discussions regarding policies, laws, and regulations that affect society.

Entanglements

Complications or complexities arising from international relations.

American Ideologies

The unique interpretations and adaptations of political beliefs as they manifest in the United States.