Political Factions and Government Structure

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to political factions, the structure of government, the role of representatives, electoral processes, and media standards.

What is a faction?

A faction is a group of citizens united by a common interest, goal, or passion that is contrary to the rights of other citizens or the interests of the community as a whole.

What are some examples of factions?

Political parties (e.g., Federalists vs. Anti-Federalists), interest groups (e.g., lobbyists for business, labor unions), and special interest groups (e.g., large landowners vs. small farmers).

What causes factions?

Unequal distribution of property, differing opinions and beliefs, and human nature, as people tend to form groups to protect their interests.

How does the Constitution manage the problem of factions?

Through a large republic that makes it difficult for any single faction to dominate, representative government, checks and balances, and federalism.

What is the purpose of a separation of powers?

To prevent tyranny by ensuring no one person or branch gains too much power.

What are the three branches of government and their roles?

Legislative Branch (makes laws), Executive Branch (enforces laws), Judicial Branch (interprets laws).

What is an example of checks and balances between Congress and the President?

Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote; the President can veto bills passed by Congress.

What does Federalist 52 explain about the House of Representatives?

It was designed to be close to the people, with members elected every two years to ensure accountability.

What is the purpose of the Senate according to Federalist 62?

To provide stability and moderating influence in government, protecting state interests and preventing hasty decisions.

What is homestyle in political representation?

Homestyle refers to how representatives build trust and maintain support from constituents through personal interaction and service.

What are Fenno's 4 constituencies?

Geographic, Reelection, Primary, and Personal Constituencies, representing different levels of connection and loyalty to a member of Congress.

What is the definition of attentive and inattentive publics?

Attentive public: Citizens who pay close attention to politics. Inattentive public: Citizens who do not engage much with political issues.

How do individuals create their policy preferences according to Arnold?

Based on perceived costs and benefits of government actions, focusing on visibility and traceability.

What is apportionment in Congress?

The process of determining how many seats each state gets in Congress, done every ten years after the Census.

What is gerrymandering?

The process of drawing district boundaries to give one party an advantage over others.

What does the Voting Rights Act achieve?

It led to the creation of majority-minority districts to ensure fair representation for racial and ethnic minorities.

What is the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA)?

A law passed to regulate how money is raised and spent in U.S. federal elections, strengthened after Watergate.

What does the McCain Feingold Campaign Finance Reform Act address?

It aimed to close loopholes in FECA and reduce the influence of big money in politics, banning 'soft money'.

What are the Full News Standard and the Burglar Alarm Standard in media coverage?

Full News Standard: Comprehensive and balanced reporting; Burglar Alarm Standard: Focusing on important issues and crises.