Ch. 10 American Political Culture

10.1 - 10.2 - 10.3 (Need to do)

Political Culture

Dominant values exhibited in government to citizen relationship

• U.S. = democratic ideals

Individualism

People have the ability and are in control of their own lives

• U.S. = can accomplish whatever you want

Equality of Opportunity vs. Equality of Result

Equal chance to compete on paper does not reflect reality of world

• Opportunities are equal, but growing economic divide between classes

Affirmative Action

Taking measures to assist historically disadvantaged groups

Lasseiz faire

Free market: market determines prices and availability of products

• Limited gov involvement, mainly shapes taxes, spending, regulation

Rule of Law

Nobody is above the law including officials and citizens

Freedom of Information Act

Allows citizens to access documents kept by government

Limited Government

Government’s power is restricted- not absolute

Entitlement Programs

Guarantee specific benefits to qualifying individuals

Political Socialization

How individuals align themself with different ideologies based off of experiences

Political Ideology

Set of beliefs about government and policies

Political Culture

Broad underlying values shaping people’s beliefs about government

Party Identification

How much a person aligns themself with or supports a specific party

Family Impact on Political Socialization

Primary source of political information as a child

• Develops initial core values and beliefs

Schools/Peers Impact on Political Socialization

American government/civics classes in respectful political climate

• Exposure to new perspectives

• Encourage political participation and voting

Religion Impact on Political Socialization

Religious histories/fundamental beliefs exist in different parties

• Social interactions with members, sermons

Civic Organizations Impact on Political Socialization

Working toward shared goal with multiple members building relationships with public officials

• Build skills in networking, fundraising, organizing

Generational Effect

Same generation experiences same life-changing events

• Ex. economic recession, COVID-19

Life Cycle Effect

Change political opinions depending on current stage in life