American Political Ideologies and Beliefs: every key term you need (+ practice quiz)
21 flashcard terms for AP US Government Unit 4, written to match the course framework. Study them here, then drill them as interactive flashcards, or test yourself with the 10-question quiz — free, no account needed.
The lifelong process by which people acquire their political beliefs and values from agents like family, school, peers, and media.
Agents of Socialization
Sources that shape political attitudes, including family (often the strongest), schools, peers, religious institutions, and the media.
Political Ideology
A coherent set of beliefs about government, politics, and public policy, such as liberalism or conservatism.
Liberalism
Ideology generally favoring an active government role in the economy and protection of civil rights, often associated with the Democratic Party.
Conservatism
Ideology generally favoring limited government in the economy, traditional social values, and states' rights, often associated with the Republican Party.
Libertarianism
Ideology favoring minimal government intervention in both economic and social affairs, prioritizing individual liberty.
Public Opinion
The collective attitudes and beliefs of citizens about government, policies, and issues, often measured through polling.
Scientific (Random) Sampling
Selecting respondents so every member of the population has an equal chance of being chosen, making a poll representative.
Sampling Error (Margin of Error)
A measure of a poll's accuracy indicating the range within which the true value likely falls; smaller samples yield larger error.
Random Digit Dialing / Representative Sample
Techniques to reach a cross-section of the population so a poll accurately reflects the larger group.
Benchmark Poll
A poll taken early in a campaign to establish a baseline of support and voter attitudes.
Tracking Poll
A poll conducted repeatedly over time to measure shifts in public opinion during a campaign.
Exit Poll
A survey of voters as they leave polling places, used to predict outcomes and analyze the electorate.
Generational and Life-Cycle Effects
Generational effects: events shape a cohort's lasting views; life-cycle effects: attitudes change as people age (e.g., interest in Social Security).
Political Efficacy
A citizen's belief that they can understand and influence government; high efficacy is linked to greater participation.
Keynesian Economics
Fiscal theory favoring government spending and demand management to stimulate the economy during downturns.
Supply-Side Economics
Fiscal theory favoring tax cuts and reduced regulation to encourage production, investment, and economic growth.
Fiscal Policy
Government use of taxing and spending, controlled by Congress and the president, to influence the economy.