Unit 4 AP U.S. Gov Vocab

Core values

Individualism, equal opportunity, free enterprise, and rule of law.

Individualism

Each person has the ability to shape their life and destiny through the choices they make.

Equal opportunity

All people are given an equal chance to compete.

Free enterprise

The market determines prices, products, and services.

Rule of law

Every person, even those in power, must follow the same laws that govern all.

Political socialization

The process by which individuals develop political beliefs, values, opinions, and behaviors.

United States political culture

Its democratic ideals, principles, and core values.

Globalization

A process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments worldwide.

Political ideology

A set of political ideas and beliefs on how society should function in achieving and prioritizing goals.

Generational effects

Experiences shared by people of a common age.

Life cycle effects

Experiences a person encounters during different life stages.

Scientific poll

A survey of public opinion using statistical information to randomly select representative respondents.

Opinion poll

Measuring public opinion on various issues.

Benchmark poll

Creating baseline views of a candidate.

Tracking poll

Following how views of a candidate change during a campaign.

Exit poll

Collecting data on why people voted the way they did.

Polling methodology

More precise when it includes accurate sampling methods, neutral framing of questions, and accurate reporting.

Public opinion

Collective opinion on a topic or issue or voting intention relevant to society.

Democratic Party

A major political party that aligns more closely to liberal ideological positions.

Liberalism

Favor more governmental regulation of the marketplace and national government involvement in social issues.

Republican Party

A major political party that aligns more closely to conservative ideological positions.

Conservatism

Favor fewer regulations in the marketplace and less national government involvement in social issues.

Libertarianism

Favor little or no regulation of the marketplace, with national or state government involvement primarily for protecting property rights.

Fiscal policy

Actions taken by Congress and the president to influence economic conditions.

Keynesian theory

A macroeconomic theory based on how aggregate demand influences economic output and inflation.

Supply-side theory

A macroeconomic theory focused on increasing aggregate supply by lowering taxes and deregulation.

Monetary policy

Actions taken by the Federal Reserve to influence interest rates affecting broader economic conditions.

Federal Reserve

An independent agency which seeks to achieve maximum employment and price stability.