Study Flashcards for PSC 1 Exam

These flashcards cover key concepts relating to interest groups and the judiciary that are essential for the PSC 1 exam.

Interest Group

An organization of people with shared interests who seek to influence public policy.

First Amendment

The amendment that protects the involvement of interest groups, ensuring the rights to free speech and assembly.

Pluralism

A political system where multiple groups compete for power and influence over public policy.

Amicus Curiae Brief

A document submitted to a court by someone who is not a party to the case, providing additional information or arguments.

Iron Triangle

The relationship between Congress, interest groups, and government agencies that influences public policy.

Judicial Review

The power of the Supreme Court to declare laws or actions unconstitutional.

Litigation

The process of taking legal action, often used by interest groups to influence public policy.

Stare Decisis

The legal principle of determining points in litigation according to precedent.

Civil Liberties

Fundamental rights and freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution, protected from government overreach.

Incorporation

The legal doctrine whereby the protections of the Bill of Rights are applied to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment.

Judicial Activism

Judicial rulings suspected of being based on personal or political considerations rather than existing law.

Judicial Restraint

The principle that courts should defer to the decisions of the legislative and executive branches.

Libel

The act of publishing false statements that damage a person's reputation.

Material Benefits

Tangible incentives provided by interest groups to attract and retain members.

Economic Interest Groups

Groups that seek to influence government policy for financial gain or interests.

Public-Interest Groups

Organizations that advocate for causes that benefit society as a whole.

Supreme Court

The highest court in the United States, with the ultimate authority in interpreting federal law.

Schenck v. United States

A landmark Supreme Court case that upheld the conviction of a man for distributing leaflets opposing the draft during WWI on the grounds of clear and present danger.

Eighth Amendment

The amendment that prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishments.

Gideon v. Wainwright

The Supreme Court case that held that the Sixth Amendment's guarantee of counsel is a right applicable to state courts.