Unit 4 ap gov terms

Conservative

A political ideology that favors limited government, free markets, traditional values, and cautious or slow change.

Liberal

A political ideology that supports a more active government role in solving social and economic problems, expanding rights, and promoting equality.

Libertarian

An ideology that emphasizes minimal government in both economic and personal matters—supports free markets and individual freedom (e.g., less regulation and fewer personal restrictions).

Political Ideology

A consistent set of beliefs about the proper role of government in society and how policies should be shaped.

Political Efficacy

The belief that one’s political participation matters and can influence government.

Political Legitimacy

The idea that government has a rightful authority and that people accept and obey its laws.

Political Socialization

The lifelong process by which people form their political beliefs, influenced by family, school, media, peers, etc.

Political Party

An organized group that seeks to influence government by electing candidates and shaping policy.

Party Platform

A formal set of beliefs, goals, and policy positions adopted by a political party.

Party Polarization

The growing ideological divide between political parties, especially the Democratic Party and Republican Party.

Democratic Party

Generally supports liberal policies like expanded government programs, environmental protection, and social equality.

Republican Party

Generally supports conservative policies like limited government, lower taxes, and traditional values.

Third Party (Minor Party)

Any political party outside the two major parties; often focuses on specific issues or alternative viewpoints.

Individualism

People are responsible for their own success and decisions.

Free Enterprise

Economic system where individuals and businesses operate with minimal government interference.

Equality of Opportunity

Everyone should have the same chance to succeed, regardless of background.

Limited Government

Government power should be restricted to protect individual freedoms.

Rule of Law

Everyone, including leaders, must follow the law.

Public Policy

Government actions and decisions made to address problems.

Fiscal Policy

Government use of taxation and spending to influence the economy.

Monetary Policy

Control of the money supply and interest rates (by the Federal Reserve) to manage the economy.

Social Policy

Government policies related to social issues like healthcare, education, and civil rights.

Keynesian Economics

Argues that government should increase spending during economic downturns to boost demand and recovery.

Supply-Side Economics

Argues that lowering taxes and regulations encourages production, investment, and economic growth.

Benchmark Polls

Early polls used to measure public opinion at the start of a campaign.

Entrance Polls

Polls taken as voters enter polling places (less common today).

Exit Polls

Polls taken after people vote to predict election outcomes.

Tracking Polls

Repeated polls over time that show trends in public opinion.

Generation Effect on Ideology

People who grow up during the same time period (e.g., wars, economic crises) often share similar political views.

Life Cycle Effect on Ideology

People’s political views change as they age (often becoming more conservative over time).

Major Event Effect on Ideology

Significant events (like wars or economic crises) can shift people’s political beliefs quickl