Group Behavior in Political Science

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to group behavior and political culture in political science.

Political Culture

Shared political attitudes, values, goals, and practices common to members of a political group.

Tocqueville's observation on American Democracy

He noted individualism, political participation, equality, and capitalism as cultural aspects that contribute to democracy's success in America.

Elinor Ostrom

A scholar known for her work on governing common-pool resources and for proposing collective decision-making to prevent the tragedy of the commons.

Free-rider problem

When individuals in a group have incentives not to contribute to the group's goals, as they would receive the same outcome whether they contribute or not.

Pluralist theory of politics

A theory that asserts multiple and diverse interests compete for attention and resources, which is deemed beneficial for society.

Interest groups

Associations formed to promote a sectional interest in the political system, aiming to influence government and policy.

Transaction theory of politics

The idea that political actors respond to the interests of focused elites, relating to an exchange between interest groups and government.

Collective action problem

A situation where individuals have incentives that contradict what is best for the group, often leading to inaction.

Types of political culture

Includes elite culture, mass culture, and minority cultures, each influencing political attitudes and behaviors differently.

Disturbance theory

A theory by David Truman that states external factors cause people to form new groups based on changing social norms, economy, and environment.