Foundations of Government
What did John Locke believe was the main purpose of government?
To protect people’s natural rights — life, liberty, and property
What compromise created a two-house Congress during the Constitutional Convention?
The Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise).
What is one right protected by the First Amendment?
Freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, or petition.
Which amendment lowered the voting age to 18?
The 26th Amendment.
What is agenda setting?
When the media determines which issues receive public attention.
What term describes government based on the consent of the governed?
Social Contract Theory
What clause makes federal law supreme over state law?
The Supremacy Clause (Article VI).
Which Supreme Court case established the right to remain silent?
Miranda v. Arizona (1966).
What is one major agent of political socialization?
Family, schools, peers, or media.
What is framing?
How the media presents an issue to influence perception.
What’s the difference between a direct and representative democracy?
Direct = citizens vote on laws; Representative = elect officials to make laws
What’s the difference between enumerated and reserved powers?
Enumerated powers belong to the national government; reserved powers belong to the states (10th Amendment).
What’s the difference between civil liberties and civil rights?
Civil liberties protect individuals from government interference; civil rights guarantee equal treatment by government.
What’s a common reason some groups have lower voter turnout?
Barriers to registration, low political efficacy, or lack of access to polling places.
What is priming?
When media coverage influences the criteria people use to evaluate leaders or issues.
What is the difference between public goods and private goods?
Public goods are available to everyone (like clean air or national defense); private goods are purchased and used individually (like food or clothing)
What system divides power between national and state governments?
Federalism — shared authority between national and state levels.
What clause in the 14th Amendment guarantees equal treatment under the law?
The Equal Protection Clause.
What’s the difference between primary and general elections?
Primary elections select party nominees; general elections decide who holds office.
What is citizen journalism?
When individuals use personal devices or social media to collect and share news.
Define “political ideology.”
A consistent set of beliefs about politics, government, and public policy
What did Anti-Federalists demand be added to the Constitution before ratification?
The Bill of Rights to protect individual freedoms.
What legislation outlawed segregation in public facilities?
The Civil Rights Act of 1964.
What term describes citizens voting directly on policy issues?
Ballot initiatives or referendums.
Name one benefit and one challenge of social media in politics.
Benefit: more direct participation; Challenge: misinformation or echo chambers.