Presidency Gov Test Vocab

Realism

a theory that views the world as a self-help system where states are the primary actors and prioritize their own national interests and security in an anarchic environment

Idealism

A theory of international relations that focuses on the hope the nations will act together to solve international problems and promote peace.

isolationism

a policy of remaining apart from the affairs or interests of other groups, especially the political affairs of other countries.

tariff

A tax on imported goods

Hard Power

the use of military or economic force to influence behavior

Soft Power

The reliance on diplomacy and negotiation to solve international problems.

Protectionism

the theory or practice of shielding a country's domestic industries from foreign competition by taxing imports.

Non Governmental Organizations (NGO)

any non-profit, voluntary citizens' group which is organized on a local, national or international level.

Internationalism

A national policy of actively trading with foreign countries to foster peace and prosperity

Unilateralism

World order in which one state is in a position of dominance with allies following rather than joining the political decision-making process

Patronage

Granting favors or giving contracts or making appointments to office in return for political support

pardon

A declaration of forgiveness and freedom from punishment

amnesty

a pardon to a group of people

regulations

administrative rules that guide the operation of a government program

federal mandates

regulations that the national government imposes on state and local governments

Persona non grata

an unwelcome person

Fiscal year

A 12-month period, October through September, for planning the federal budget

Bureaucracy

A large, complex organization composed of appointed officials

Treaty

A formal agreement between two or more sovereign states

Executive Privilege

An implied presidential power that allows the president to refuse to disclose information regarding confidential conversations or national security to Congress or the judiciary.

Impeach

To accuse government officials of misconduct in office

Commutation

the power to reduce the length of a sentence or fine for a crime

Swing Voters

Voters who frequently swing their support from one party to another.

Platform

a series of statements expressing the party's principles, beliefs, and positions on election issues

Executive orders

Formal orders issued by the president to direct action by the federal bureaucracy.

pocket veto

president's power to kill a bill, if Congress is not in session, by not signing it for 10 days