Unit 10 American Political Values

Political Culture

The dominant set of beliefs, customs, traditions, and values that

define the relationship between citizens and government.

Individualism

The belief that individuals should be responsible for themselves

and for the decisions they make.

Laissez-Faire or Free Enterprise

An economic system in which government intrudes as little as

Free Enterprise possible in the economic transactions among citizens and

businesses.

Rule of Law

The principle that no one, including public officials, is above the

law.

Political Socialization

The experiences and factors that shape and individual’s political

values, attitudes, and behaviors.

Political Ideology

An individual’s coherent set of beliefs about government and

politics.

Generational Effect

The impact of historical events experienced by a generation upon

their political views.

Life-Cycle Effect

The impact of a person’s age and stage in life on his or her political

views.

Globalization

The increasing interconnectedness of people, businesses, and

countries throughout the world.

Outsourcing

When a company moves its business to a place where labor costs

are cheaper or production is more efficient because workers work

longer hours.

Need-Based Assistance

Financial aid given to people based on their financial need. Often

provided by the Federal or State governments.

Multinational Corporations

MNCs a business that operates in more than one country.

Non-Governmental Organizations

NGO which is an independent, non-profit organization that

operates outside government control.

Intergovernmental Organizations

IGOs an association of member states that work together

on shared interests. Created by treaty and have a legal

identity separate from their member states.

North American Free Trade Agreement

NAFTA Signed in 1992 and went into effect in 1994. It was

replaced by the United States – Mexico – Canada (USMCA)

agreement in 2020.