Class Notes on Political Ideology and Parties

Announcements and Class Schedule

  • Spring Break: 2 weeks away, and after break, the semester will wrap up quickly.
  • Test Returns: Expect tests to be returned two weeks after the exam date.
  • Extra Credit Assignment:
    • Optional, no penalty for not completing it.
    • Worth 15 points if done correctly, increasing your overall grade significantly.
    • Must use three sources and submit a one-page paper.
    • Important: No cheating; assignments will be checked for plagiarism.
    • Deadline: April 10, no extensions allowed.

Political Ideology

  • Definition: A set of beliefs about how society should function and be governed.

    • Involves questions about:
    • How society should be governed
    • Who should govern
    • How to achieve a just society

  • Formation of Political Ideology: Influenced by various factors:

    • Family: Discussions and beliefs parents and siblings share.
    • Community: Neighborhood dynamics and collective narratives.
    • Education: School teachings, impact of teachers and peers.
    • Media: Influences from traditional media and social media echo chambers.
    • Religion: Creates values and community ties influencing political beliefs.
    • Personal Experiences: Events that shape one's views (e.g., activism).
    • Social Class: Assumptions based on economic status regarding beliefs and policies.

Political Parties and Their Platforms

  • The main political parties in the United States: Republican Party and Democratic Party.
Similarities:
  • Both parties claim to aim for a better country and share support for:
    • Capitalism (free enterprise)
    • Military spending
    • Individual rights
    • Constitutional values
    • Political fundraising and election-winning goals
Differences:
  • Welfare Systems: Disagreement on how robust safety nets should be.
  • Gun Control: Varied perspectives and policies.
  • Immigration Policy: Different approaches and ideologies.
  • LGBTQ Rights: Contrasting beliefs and legislative efforts.
  • Role of Government in Economy: Ideological splits on regulation and intervention.

Democratic Party Platform

  • Believes in a strong role for the federal government to:
    • Protect citizens from market fluctuations
    • Provide social welfare (e.g., FDR's New Deal concepts, unemployment benefits)
    • Combat social inequalities

Republican Party Platform

  • Advocates for a limited government role in:
    • Economic regulation and markets
    • Social welfare programs, favoring privatization and reduced spending
    • Valuing law and order and individualism, especially around family values.

Voter Demographics

  • Democratic Party: Attracts liberals, women, African Americans, highly educated individuals, urban dwellers.
  • Republican Party: Appeals to conservatives, white males, white Protestants, rural residents, and born-again Christians (Christian right).