Critical Thinking
Determining what can reasonably be
believed and then using the information to reach a
thoughtful conclusion.
Critical Thinking
The principle that individuals should be free to
act as they choose, provided they do not infringe
unreasonably upon others.
Liberty
The means by which society settles its conflicts
and allocates the resulting benefits and costs.
Politics
A system in which the people govern,
either directly or through elected representatives.
Democracy
Failing to actually study a
claim.
Cognitive Laziness
A commitment to personal initiative and
self-sufficiency.
Individualism
The ability of persons, groups, or institutions to
influence political developments.
Power
The idea that there are lawful
restrictions on government’s power.
Constitutionalism
The systematic study of government
and politics.
Political Science
The notion that all individuals are equal in their
moral worth and thereby entitled to equal treatment
under the law.
Equality
The preferences of special interests largely
determine what government does.
Pluralism
The power exercised by well-positioned and
highly influential individuals.
Elitism
Terms and concepts that precisely describe key aspects.
Analytical Tools
The principle that the people are the
ultimate source of governing authority and should have a voice in their governing.
Self-Government
The use of the courts as a means of
asserting rights and interests.
Legal Action
The majority effectively determines
what government does.
Majoritarianism
The widely shared and deep-seated
beliefs of a country’s people about politics
Political Culture
Two examples showing America has struggled to achieve equality.
Slavery, Jim Crow laws, immigration restrictions, or limited voting rights.
The recognized right of officials to exercise
power.
Authority
The influence business firms have on
public policy.
Corporate Power