Political Science study guide chapter 1-5 Exam Questions with Complete Solutions

Republic - ANSWER-A government in which citizens rule indirectly and make government decisions through their elected representative institution - ANSWER-the organizations, norms, and rules that structure government and public action Rational-choice theory - ANSWER-an approach to political behavior that views, individual as rational, decisive actors who know their political interests and seek to act on them American Exceptionalism - ANSWER-The view that the United States is uniquely characterized by a distinct set of ideas such as equality, self-rule, and limited government. Freedom - ANSWER-the ability to pursue one's own desires without interference from others Negative liberty - ANSWER-Freedom from constraints or the interference of others Political Liberty - ANSWER-the ability- and provision of basic necessities-to pursue one's goals self-rule - ANSWER-the idea that legitimate government flows from the people Democracy - ANSWER-a government in which citizens rule directly and makes government decisions for themselves Referendum - ANSWER-an election in which citizens vote directly on an issue Initiative - ANSWER-a process in which citizens propose new laws or amendments to the state constitution Conservatives - ANSWER-Americans who believe in reduced government spending, personal responsibility, traditional moral values, and a strong national defense. Also known as right or right-wing. Liberals - ANSWER-Americans who value cultural diversity, government programs for the needy, public intervention in the economy, and individuals' right to a lifestyle based on their own social and moral positions. Also known as left or left-wing