PS 101 Fall24-Three Theories

Who governs?

A foundational question in American politics regarding the distribution of political power.

Majoritarian Democracy

A political theory where policy decisions closely mirror the collective will of the average citizen.

Median Voter Theorem

A principle stating that in a two-party system, parties tend to adopt positions that are appealing to the median voter.

Elite Theory (Elitism)

A theory suggesting that policy decisions are made by a select group of privileged individuals with high income, wealth, or social status.

Pluralism

A political theory positing that policy decisions result from interactions among various interest groups.

Majoritarian Pluralism

A concept stating that diverse interest groups will produce balanced political outcomes.

Biased Pluralism

A theory indicating that a small subset of interest groups hold disproportionate power due to resources and access.

C. Wright Mills

A sociologist known for his work 'The Power Elite,' discussing the concentration of power among a select few.

Interest Groups

Organizations that seek to influence public policy and decision-making.

Grassroots Advocacy

A movement that mobilizes individuals at the local level to advocate for change.

Significance of Campaign Spending

The concept that higher spending by candidates correlates with increased chances of winning elections.

Survey of U.S. Adults

Research conducted to gauge public opinion, such as attitudes toward political figures or policies.

Political Input

The participation of different actors in the political system.

Policy Output

The outcomes or results of political decision-making.

NRA (National Rifle Association)

An influential interest group focused on advocating for gun rights and opposing gun control.

Political Power

The ability to influence or outright control the behavior of people and the course of events.

Collective Will

The shared desires or interests of a group of people, often expressed through political action.

Examples of Elite Theory

Real-world instances that illustrate how policy decisions favor a privileged elite.

Political Actors

Individuals or groups that play a role in the political process.

Access Points

Opportunities within the political system where interest groups can influence policy.

Public Policy

The principles on which social laws are based, shaped by political decisions.