Political Parties and American Political Culture

These flashcards cover key concepts related to political parties, their functions, and the American political culture as discussed in the lecture notes.

Political Parties

Organizations that seek to gain political power by electing candidates to office.

Two-party system

A political system dominated by two major parties.

Factions

Groups organized around a common interest that might conflict with the common good.

Coalitions

Alliances formed between political parties or legislators to achieve common goals.

Heuristic

A mental shortcut that allows people to make decisions quickly.

Party ID

The political party with which an individual identifies.

Affective Polarization

Increasing antagonism and distrust between supporters of different political parties.

Ideological Polarization

The extent to which political parties' positions on issues have diverged.

Democratic-Republicans

One of the first political parties in the US, founded by Jefferson, opposing the Federalists.

Federalists

One of the first political parties in the US, founded by Hamilton, advocating for a strong national government.

Super PAC

A type of political action committee that can raise unlimited sums of money from corporations, unions, associations, and individuals.

Egalitarianism

The principle that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities.

Political Accountability

The responsibility of politicians to respond to voters' needs and opinions.