Politics and Film: Liberal Ideologies, Democracy, and Capitalism

These flashcards cover key concepts related to government structures, political ideologies, the influence of interest groups, and social welfare systems as discussed in the lecture.

Government

Institutions and procedures through which a territory and its people are ruled.

Autocracy

Government by a single, nonelected individual, such as a king, queen, or dictator.

Oligarchy

Government by a small group that is not accountable to citizens, such as military officers, landowners, or wealthy merchants.

Democracy

A system of rule that permits citizens to play a significant role in the governmental process, usually through elections.

Constitutional government

A government limited by law in both the powers it possesses and how it exercises them.

Authoritarian government

A government that recognizes no limits on its authority but may be constrained by other institutions.

Totalitarian government

A government that seeks to eliminate other institutions that might challenge its authority.

Freemasonry

A major secret society that promotes self-determination and Republican virtues, founded during the 18th century.

Anti-Masonic Party

A single-issue party in the late 1820s that opposed Freemasonry and aimed to expand its platform.

Political action committees (PACs)

Organizations that provide financial support to candidates and parties, limited by federal law.

Super PACs

Political action committees that can raise unlimited money but cannot coordinate directly with candidates.

Liberty

Freedom from governmental control and economic freedom, including personal and economic rights.

Equality

The principle that all people should have the right to participate in politics equally and have equal opportunities.

Equality vs. Equity

Equality gives everyone the same opportunities, while equity distributes resources based on recipients' needs.

Keynesian economics

An economic theory advocating for government intervention to stimulate demand through public spending or tax cuts.

Contributory programs

Social programs financed by taxation or mandatory contributions, such as Social Security and Medicare.

Noncontributory programs

Welfare programs based on demonstrated need rather than contributions made, such as SNAP and TANF.