#1 - Politics, People, and Participation

How has racial and ethnic diversity changed in the U.S.?

Non-Hispanic whites are projected to decrease from 62% to 44% by 2060, with Hispanics being the fastest-growing group.

How do citizens use economic leverage in civic engagement?

Through boycotts and buycotts, citizens can influence firms based on their policies and practices.

What are some challenges associated with technology in politics?

Foreign interference, information overload, potential for increased cynicism, and privacy concerns.

What is the difference between a democracy and a republic?

A democracy involves direct citizen participation, while a republic involves representative government.

Define 'constitutionalism'.

Government limited by a written constitution that protects individual rights.

How has the aging population impacted policy priorities?

Increased pressure on Social Security, Medicare, and age-related services.

What is the principle of 'efficacy in action'?

When individuals act, they experience efficacy
—the belief that their efforts can produce desired outcomes, and repetition strengthens advocacy skills.

How has youth voter turnout changed?

Youth voter turnout rose to ~43% in 2016, up from 2012.

What is the core belief that fuels citizen activism?

The belief that 'my voice matters' fuels participation.

What quote by Margaret Mead relates to citizen activism?

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.

What is the impact of geographic concentration on policy priorities?

Policy priorities shift toward infrastructure, housing, and climate resilience in high-growth regions.

How has technology impacted political communication?

Technology, including social media, micro-targeting, email, and text messaging, has reshaped how politicians communicate and voters receive information.

What is the significance of the concept of 'consent of the governed'?

It means that people grant authority to government, with majority rule protecting minority rights.

What are the key ideologies on the American political spectrum?

Liberalism, conservatism, socialism, and libertarianism.

What are some traditional actions for civic engagement?

Voting, running for office, and volunteering for campaigns or community projects.

How does the concept of liberty manifest in American values?

Liberty includes freedom from undue government interference and freedom to pursue happiness.

What is the difference between a constitutional monarchy and an absolute monarchy?

A constitutional monarchy has a monarch with ceremonial powers, while an absolute monarchy has a monarch with complete control.

What is the impact of population growth on public services?

Greater demand for public services due to a growing and more diverse population.

What is the significance of the Mayflower Compact?

It was an early social contract emphasizing the consent of the governed.

What demographic trends are impacting American politics?

Population growth, geographic concentration, aging population, racial/ethnic diversity, and changes in household structure.

What are the core functions of government?

National defense, domestic order & stability, legal system, public services, fiscal operations, and socialization.

How did Enlightenment thinkers influence American democracy?

Thinkers like Newton, Hobbes, Locke, and Rousseau influenced ideas on natural law, social contract, and popular sovereignty.

What is the role of capitalism in American political values?

Capitalism involves private ownership of production, with market determination of prices, wages, and distribution, subject to government regulation.

What are the core American political values?

Liberty, equality, capitalism, consent of the governed, and individualism.

What are some ways citizens can engage in civic and political activities?

Voting, running for office, volunteering, internet activism, buycotting, e-petitions, and online protests.

Define 'civic engagement' according to Michael Delli Carpini.

Individual and collective actions designed to identify and address issues of public concern.

What is the role of socialization in government functions?

Socialization involves shaping political values and civic identity through institutions like public schools and community programs.

What are the key influences on American democracy?

Ancient Greece (demokratia), Judeo-Christian tradition, English common law, the Reformation, and the Enlightenment.

What are the main types of government systems?

Monarchy, oligarchy, democracy, totalitarianism, and authoritarianism.