Political Culture and Participation in Texas

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to political culture and participation in Texas as discussed in the lecture.

Political Culture

The set of attitudes, beliefs, and sentiments that shape the political behavior and opinions of a society.

Moralistic Political Culture

A political culture where government is seen as a positive force for social and political change, emphasizing the common good and civic engagement.

Individualistic Political Culture

A political culture that prioritizes individual autonomy and believes that government should be limited, only intervening when individuals demand assistance.

Traditionalistic Political Culture

A political culture that supports government for the elite and emphasizes social hierarchies and networks rather than mass participation.

Who Gets What, When, and How?

A political definition coined by Harold Lasswell that examines the dynamics of power distribution and political decisions within a society.

Voter Turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who cast a ballot in an election, often varying significantly between types of elections.

Incremental Change

Gradual adjustments to policy or law, often preferred due to the conservative bias in the U.S. political system.

Identity Politics

Political positions or policies that are based on the interests and perspectives of social groups with which individuals identify.

Laboratories of Democracy

A term attributed to Louis Brandeis, referring to states as venues where new ideas and policies can be tested before being implemented nationwide.

Low Tax, Low Service State

A characterization of Texas' political and economic structure where government provides minimal services funded through relatively low taxation.