Political socialization, ideology and public opinion

Political Culture

The set of shared beliefs, values, and norms that influence political behavior and attitudes within a society.

Individualism

A political or social philosophy that emphasizes the rights and freedoms of the individual, often prioritizing personal autonomy over collective identity.

Equality of Opportunity

A principle stating that all individuals should have an equal chance to pursue opportunities, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Free Enterprise

An economic system in which private individuals or businesses operate with minimal government intervention.

Rule of Law

The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law, which should be applied fairly and consistently.

Limited Government

A political system in which the powers of the government are restricted by law, typically through a constitution, to protect individual rights.

Political Socialization

The process through which individuals acquire their political beliefs, values, and behaviors, often influenced by family, education, media, and peers.

Opinion Leaders

Individuals who influence others' opinions and behaviors, often due to their expertise, credibility, or social position.

Generational Effects

The impact of historical events and social changes on the political attitudes and behaviors of a specific generation.

Life-Cycle Effects

The variations in political attitudes and behaviors that individuals exhibit at different stages of their life.

Public Opinion

The collective attitudes and beliefs of individuals on certain issues or topics within a society at any given time.

Opinion Poll

A survey designed to gauge public opinion on various topics by sampling a representative subset of the population.

Benchmark Poll

An initial survey conducted to gather baseline data on public opinion before a political campaign.

Tracking Polls

Surveys conducted over a period of time to track changes in public opinion regarding specific issues or candidates.

Entrance/Exit Polls

Surveys conducted with voters as they enter or exit polling places to gain insights into their voting choices and motivations.

Straw Polls

Informal surveys or polls used to gauge the opinion of a group without scientific rigor.

Sampling

The process of selecting a subset of individuals from a population to estimate characteristics of the whole population.

Sampling Errors

The errors that occur in survey results due to the use of a sample instead of the entire population.

Ideology

A set of beliefs and values that form a framework for political theory and policy.

Political Ideology

A coherent set of beliefs about politics, public policy, and the role of government.

Radical

An individual or ideology that advocates for significant, rapid change to the social or political order.

Liberal

An individual or ideology generally favoring social reform, equality, and a more active role for government in economic regulation.

Moderate

An individual or ideology characterized by a centrist position on political issues, often advocating compromise.

Conservative

An individual or ideology prioritizing tradition, stability, and a limited role for government in economic affairs.

Reactionary

An individual or ideology seeking to return to a previous state of society or governance, often