public opinion

political socialization

the process by which we are trained to understand and join a country’s political world

gender gap

the marked differences in political opinion between men and women

heuristics

a rule of thumb, or a cue

politcial culture

shared political attitudes, values, and beliefs

political elites

a community or political leader who shapes or even dominates public opinion by providing information to citizens and fostering political strategy

bandwagon effect

a tendency by the media to increase coverage of candidates who win primary elections and caucuses early on in the presidential nomination process

horse race journalism

the common media practice of following the leading candidates every move and polling numbers throughout a presidential campaign

collective opinion

the opinion of an entire group, aka public mood

mandate

in politics, the authority and influence an elected official gains by virtue of substantial popular support; a politician with an electoral madate has confidence to push for their desired policies, often what tehy campaigned on

classic liberalism

believes in individual rights and liberties. Views government with suspicion. Rejects government intervention

modern liberalism

focuses on equality. Supports government intervention in society. wants the economy to promote equality

traditional conservative

believes government provides the rule of law. Thinks it maintains a safe, organized society based on traditional religious values

modern conservatism

believes government leaders guard individual liberties. Prefer a smaller government. Wants the government to stay out of the economy