AP COGO CH1+2

area studies

A method of organizing political research focused on a specific geographical region rather than comparing countries globally.

behavioral revolution

A mid 20th century movement that shifted the study focus from formal political institutions to individual political behavior.

causal relationship

A direct cause and effect relationship where a change in one variable directly affects another.

comparative method

An approach to studying countries by comparing their similarities and differences to draw conclusions.

comparative politics

The study of different countries’ government systems, political structures, and cultures.

correlation

An apparent association between certain factors or variables between countries.

deductive reasoning

A logical process that starts from a question, moves to a theory, and tests it against different cases.

dependent variable

The variable that is affected by the independent variable; it is typically on the y-axis of a graph.

endogeneity

A problem where it is unclear whether one variable is a cause or effect due to mutual influence.

equality

A standard of living shared by all members of a community or society, often measured in terms of justice.

formal institutions

Structures built on official rules that are clear and well-defined.

freedom

The ability of an individual to act according to their own choices without fear of government retribution.

game theory

An approach modeling how politicians make decisions to maximize their goals based on anticipated actions of others.

independent variable

A variable that is controlled and does not depend on others, being the cause of changes in the dependent variable.

inductive reasoning

Reasoning that begins with evidence to form a theory or hypothesis.

informal institutions

Unwritten and unofficial rules that still exert significant power.

institution

A structured organization or rule system that influences political actions and connects the public to the state.

international relations

The study of relationships between countries, focusing on foreign policies, trade, and conflicts.

modernization theory

The hypothesis that countries undergo economic development and stability as they become more capitalist.

multicausality

The idea that political events are caused by multiple interacting factors.

politics

The struggle for power among groups to influence society's choices.

power

The ability of an individual or group to influence actions and decisions within a community.

qualitative method

Research focusing on smaller cases using non-numerical evidence.

quantitative method

Research using numerical and statistical data to analyze patterns across many cases.

rational choice

Assumes political decisions are made by weighing costs versus benefits for self-interest.

selection bias

A bias occurring when a non-random selection of cases skews research results.

theory

A collection of interrelated hypotheses and facts formulated to draw conclusions.

asymmetric federalism

When power is unevenly distributed among regional governments, often due to ethnic division.

autonomy

The ability of a group to exercise power independently from external influences.

capacity

A state’s ability to implement policy, enforce laws, and provide services across its territory.

charismatic legitimacy

Legitimacy derived from the personal appeal of leaders, as opposed to traditional authority.

country

A sovereign state that combines government authority with a defined territory and populace.

devolution

The transfer of power to lower levels of government to increase legitimacy and address tensions.

failed state

A state where the government has lost the ability to enforce laws and provide security.

federalism

A governmental system dividing power between a central government and regional authorities.

government

The officially empowered individual or group responsible for governing a state.

legitimacy

Public belief in a government’s right to rule and exercise authority.

rational-legal legitimacy

Legitimacy grounded in laws and procedural neutrality, rather than tradition or force.

regime

The fundamental set of rules and norms governing political power acquisition and maintenance.

sovereignty

A state’s ability to enforce laws and policies independently within its territory.

state

An organized political entity with control over a specific territory.

strong state

A state capable of defending its territory, enforcing laws, and managing its economy effectively.

traditional legitimacy

Legitimacy based on longstanding customs and norms.

unitary state

A state concentrated on national-level power with restricted regional authority.

weak state

A state that struggles to maintain control and order within its territory.