Introduction to Government and Civic Engagement

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on government, types of political engagement, and the relationship between government and society.

What is government?

Government is the means by which a society organizes itself and allocates authority to accomplish collective goals and provide societal benefits.

What are some benefits that governments commonly provide?

Education, health care, and infrastructure for transportation.

What does the term 'politics' refer to?

The process of gaining and exercising control within a government for the purpose of achieving specific goals.

How does government affect individuals' lives?

Government influences aspects such as education, taxation, safety, and societal norms.

What is capitalism?

An economic system where private individuals own the means of production, and competition regulates the market.

Who is John Locke?

An English political philosopher who argued that all people have natural rights to life, liberty, and property.

What is representative democracy?

A form of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.

What is a public good?

A good that is available to all without charge, such as national security and education.

What is a toll good?

A good that is available to many but only if they can pay the price, such as private schooling.

What distinguishes socialism from capitalism?

In socialism, the government owns the means of generating wealth and redistributes it through social programs.

What is a common good?

A resource that is available for everyone to use, but is limited in supply, like clean water or fish.

What is the elite theory of government?

The belief that government is controlled by a small group of wealthy elites.

What is pluralism in government?

The theory that political power rests with competing interest groups who share influence in government.

How can citizens engage in democracy?

By voting, attending political rallies, contacting representatives, and participating in civic organizations.

What is civic engagement?

The active participation of citizens in the democratic process, influencing government actions and policies.

What significant change did the Nineteenth Amendment bring about?

It granted women the right to vote in the United States.

What is a referendum?

A direct vote in which an electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of a new law.

What is a major challenge modern youth face in political participation?

A disconnect from conventional political organizations, leading to lower engagement in traditional political activities.

What is social capital according to Robert Putnam?

The collective value of social networks and the inclinations to do things for each other in a community.

How did the Voting Rights Act of 1965 affect voters?

It ensured that African American men and women could exercise their right to vote, particularly in the South.

Why might younger Americans be less engaged in politics?

They often feel that politicians do not address issues relevant to their lives and may prefer to identify as Independents.