Political Science Concepts and Definitions

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and concepts in political science, focusing on elections, interest groups, media influence, and party systems.

Winner-Take-All Principle

In elections, the candidate with the most votes wins the seat, with no representation for lesser candidates.

Iron Triangle

A close relationship among congressional committees, interest groups, and bureaucratic agencies that can efficiently create policy but may favor certain interests.

Free Rider Problem

The situation where individuals benefit from resources or services without contributing to the cost or effort.

Political Parties

Organizations that aim to win elections, implement policy, and represent voter interests.

Electoral Realignment

A significant change in party support among the electorate, often resulting in a new coalition of voters.

Interest Groups

Organizations focused on influencing government policy without directly seeking control of government.

Media Ownership Consolidation

The trend of fewer companies controlling more media outlets, leading to less competition and diversity.

Lobbying vs. Litigation

Lobbying influences policy directly, while litigation uses the courts to pursue legal action and decisions.

Media Corporation Control

When few corporations dominate media outlets, shaping information accessibility and public discourse.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A group that collects and distributes funds to candidates who support specific issues.

Older White Male Voter Trends

Trends show that older white male voters predominantly support the Republican Party.

Young Voter Trends

Young voters are more likely to support the Democratic Party due to favoring change in the political system.

Influence of Interest Groups

Interest groups strive to sway decision-makers and shape public policy.

Media Impact on Presidential Power

The media enables presidents to communicate directly with the public, enhancing their influence.

Selective Benefits

Incentives offered to group members to encourage participation, combating the free rider problem.

Initiative

A process allowing voters to propose legislation directly to the electorate.

Priming Function of Media

The media prepares the public to think about specific issues before making judgments.

Framing Function of Media

The presentation of news in a certain context, influencing public interpretation and reaction.

Washington's Warning in Farewell Address

A caution against the divisive nature of political parties.

Reasons for Fewer US Political Parties

Fewer parties are attributed to winner-take-all voting systems and single-member districts.

Social Media Polarization

Social media amplifies extreme views, fostering a divided political landscape.

Winner-Take-All System

An electoral system where only the candidate with the most votes wins the representative seat.

Divided Government Effects

Divided control can lead to conflict, gridlock, and slower law-making processes.

Madison's Warning in Federalist Paper 10

Cautions about factions that may harm public welfare or the rights of others.

Income and Education Impact on Political Participation

Higher income and education correlate with greater involvement in political organizations.

Electoral Rule Favoring Two Parties

The winner-take-all plurality voting system perpetuates a two-party structure.

Media Role in Watergate

The media's investigation led to President Nixon's resignation.

Criticism of Pluralism Theory

Wealthy groups dominate politics, leading to unequal influence and access.

PAC vs. Super PAC

PACs donate limited amounts directly to candidates while super PACs can spend unlimited independently.

Lobbying Group Dominance

Business interests are the most heavily represented in lobbying activities.

Grassroots Lobbying

Mobilizing the public to exert influence on government officials.

Gerrymandering Effects

Alters district lines to favor parties, increasing polarization and incumbency advantage.

Agenda Setting Function of Media

Determine which issues gain public attention and discussion.

Sierra Club Example

Represents a public interest group focused on environmental issues.

National Party Convention Role

Announces candidates and establishes party platforms.

Watchdog Function of Media

Media monitors government and public officials, holds them accountable to the public.

Pentagon Papers Significance

Highlighted media's role in challenging government secrecy and promoting accountability.

Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

Allows public access to government records and information, enhancing transparency.

Definition of Lobbying

Efforts to influence government policy through direct or indirect means.

Citizens United v. FEC Significance

Permitted unlimited spending by corporations and unions in elections, greatly affecting political financing.

Media as Fourth Branch of Government

The media serves as a crucial check on governmental power through public oversight.