Political Socialization and Public Opinion

A series of flashcards covering key concepts related to political socialization, public opinion, elections, and political parties.

What is political socialization?

The process by which individuals develop their political beliefs and values.

What factors affect public opinion accuracy in polling?

Sample size, question wording, timing, and survey methodology.

What is the 15th Amendment?

It prohibits the denial of the right to vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

What is the Motor Voter Law?

Legislation that allows citizens to register to vote when applying for or renewing a driver's license.

Why was voter registration started?

To ensure an accurate and secure electoral process.

What are key differences between US and European elections?

Differences in electoral systems, voter registration processes, and political party structures.

Which demographic group predominantly supports Voter ID laws?

Conservative and Republican-leaning voters.

What is the average voting participation by age group?

Younger voters tend to have lower turnout rates compared to older voters.

What characteristics influence voting participation?

Factors like age, education level, socioeconomic status, and race.

What movements are associated with BLM and George Floyd?

Social justice movements advocating for racial equality and police reform.

What are characteristics of political campaigns?

Strategies, messaging, funding, and voter outreach efforts.

What are linkage institutions?

Structures that connect citizens to the government, like political parties, interest groups, and the media.

What was George Washington's warning regarding political parties?

He cautioned against political factions dividing the nation in his farewell address.

Which conflict did the first political parties emerge from?

The conflict over the ratification of the Constitution.

Which party was formed to fight against slavery?

The Republican Party.

What percent of the popular vote did Lincoln receive in the 1860 election?

Around 40%.

How often do party members vote for their party's candidate?

About 90% of the time.

What perpetuates the two-party system in the US?

Winner-takes-all electoral system and historical party alignment.

Which group is most likely to vote Democratic?

Young, urban, and minority voters.

Which group will be vital for both parties in the future?

Millennial and Gen Z voters.

How have political parties lost control over time?

Due to the rise of independent voters and changes in campaign financing.

Which group is the least likely to vote?

Young adults ages 18-24.

What landmark case addressed white-only primaries?

Smith v. Allwright (1944).

What are reasons for not voting?

Lack of interest, feeling disenfranchised, and logistical barriers.

What does the media typically focus on?

Current events, political scandals, and election coverage.

What is framing in media?

The way issues are presented to influence perception.

What is yellow journalism?

Sensationalized news that lacks factual support.

What characterized early newspapers?

They often provided partisan viewpoints rather than objective journalism.

What role does the FCC play?

Regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable.

What causes party realignments?

Major shifts in political, social, or economic factors affecting party dominance.

When did partisan talk radio begin to rise?

In the 1990s.

What was the significance of the Watergate scandal?

It led to greater scrutiny of government and reforms in campaign laws.

What is the common carrier function of the media?

To provide a platform for political discourse and inform the public.

What is ideology in political terms?

A consistent set of beliefs or values about politics and government.

What is identity politics?

Political positions based on the interests and perspectives of social groups.

What is priming in political communication?

The process of preparing the public to think about issues in a certain way.

How would a representative use the delegate model of representation?

By aligning their decisions with the preferences of their constituents.