Unit 4: American Political Ideologies and Beliefs

What is individualism

The belief that people should be responsible for their own decisions and well being. Emphasizes personal freedom, limited government interference, and the idea that success comes from hard work and personal initiative.

What is equality of opportunity

Belief that all individuals should have the same chance to succeed, regardless of their background. It does not guarantee equal outcomes but supports fair access to education, jobs, and other resources.

What is free market

An economic system where the prices of goods and services are determined by the forces of supply and demand, with minimal government intervention.

What is rule of law

Everyone has to follow the law no matter how rich or powerful you are. remember it as rule of ALL.

What is political socialization

The process in which one discovers their political ideology. It is important to note that family is the most common factor in political socialization.

What are generational effects

Historic events that affect a generation into becoming more liberal / conservative such as 9/11 or the Great Depression.

What are life-cycle effects

Events that change people’s ideologies such as going to college, getting married or having children. For example, an older voter might care more about social security than say a college student or a college student might care more about student loans than an older voter.

What is globalization

Increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and governments across the world.

What’s a benchmark poll

Tracking poll

What is a focus group

A small group of people that is demographically diverse that have detailed discussions on political issues or candidates for researchers to see how the general population is feeling. These allow for more open ended conversations in comparison to polls.

Why is the wording of a question important in a poll

Biased or leading language can sway respondents, while unclear or complex wording can cause confusion. Good polls use neutral, precise language to accurately capture public opinion.

What is a sample size

Number of people surveyed in a poll. A larger sample size generally produces more accurate and reliable results, especially when the sample is representative of the population.

What demographics are more likely to identify as Democrats (gender, income status, race, religion, age)

Female, middle class, people of color, nonreligious or less religious individuals and middle aged or young. please note that this is a generalization.

What demographics are more likely to identify as Republicans (gender, income status, race, religion, age)

Male, wealthy, white, Christian, older in age. please note that this is a generalization.

List some Democratic policies. Democratic policies include (but are not limited to): Expanding social welfare programs, raising the minimum wage, promoting environmental regulation, supporting civil rights protections, reforming healthcare, and increasing taxes on the wealthy. They also typically support stronger gun control, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ protections.

List some Republican policies. Republican policies include (but are not limited to): lower taxes, reduced government spending, deregulation, strong national defense, and support for traditional family values. They often oppose government-run healthcare, support gun rights, favor strict immigration policies, and promote free-market solutions to economic problems.

What is American exceptionalism

The belief that the United States is unique, and has a special role in the world stage. Proponents of this view use America’s democratic ideals, history and the country’s values to support their view and this is a common theme in the Republican party.

What is libertarianism

prioritizes individual liberty and minimal government intervention in the lives of individuals. Libertarians generally believe that each person has the right to live as they choose, as long as they do not infringe upon the rights of others.

What is party realignment

the balance of power between political parties shifts dramatically and persistently. It usually happens after a critical election and leads to new coalitions of voters and major changes in party platforms. For example, the New Deal era realigned many working-class voters to the Democratic Party.

What is fiscal policy

How taxation and government spending affect the economy

What is monetary policy

How the Federal Reserve/National bank affects the economy through interest rates.

What is Keynesian economics

The government should actively manage economic demand through fiscal policy, especially in times of recession or economic downturn. When private demand is too low, the government should increase spending or cut taxes to stimulate the economy. Basically the government needs to take an active role in the economy.

What is supply-side economics

suggests that economic growth is best achieved by policies that increase the supply of goods and services. This is often done through measures like lowering taxes (especially on businesses and investment), and deregulation of the market.

What is laissez-faire

Economic system that allows for less government control of the economy. Businesses operate freely with little to no regulation or tariffs. Supporters argue that free markets would lead to more innovation and that businesses should have freedom without government control. Critics argue that if abused, this economic system could lead to monopolies and labor abuse.

What are examples of social policy

Criminal justice, living conditions, abortion rights, LGBTQ+ rights, social security, disability services, etc.