Unit 5: Political Participation (All Chapters Included)

Political Participation

The involvement of citizens in the political process, essential for a healthy representative democracy.

Voter Turnout

The percentage of eligible voters who actually cast a ballot in an election.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A committee that raises money to elect or defeat candidates, can donate directly to campaigns.

Super PAC

A type of independent political action committee that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money, but cannot coordinate directly with candidates.

Linkage Institution

Channels that connect individuals with government, such as political parties, elections, interest groups, and the media.

Social Movement

A large group of people who come together to promote or resist social, political, or cultural change.

15th Amendment

Prohibited voting discrimination based on race.

19th Amendment

Granted women the right to vote.

Political Mobilization

The process of encouraging people to participate in politics, especially voting.

Registration Requirement

The requirement that individuals must register to vote, which can act as a barrier to voting.

National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (Motor Voter Act)

Required states to offer voter registration at DMVs and public agencies to make it easier for people to register.

Rational Choice Voting

A model where voters make decisions based on their personal best interests.

Free Rider Problem

Individuals benefiting from a group's efforts without participating or contributing.

Iron Triangle

A stable relationship between Congress, bureaucracies, and interest groups.

Amicus Curiae Brief

A document submitted by a non-litigant to provide information relevant to a court case.

Media Consolidation

The process where fewer corporations own an increasing share of the media, potentially limiting diverse viewpoints.

Fake News

Deliberately false or misleading information presented as legitimate news.

Agenda Setter

The media's role in determining which stories are highlighted and what issues are prioritized in public discourse.

Soft News

Entertainment-focused reporting that may divert attention from substantive political issues.

Digital Divide

The gap between those with and without access to digital technology and the internet, affecting political engagement.

Horse Race Journalism

Reporting that focuses on polling and who's winning rather than on substantive policy issues.

Collective Good

A benefit that cannot be withheld from anyone, such as clean air.

Voter Registration

The process of signing up to be eligible to vote in elections.