Political Science Exam

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'linked fate' in political science?

  • The phenomenon where individuals' political views are primarily shaped by their family's political affiliations.
  • The idea that a politician's success is directly linked to their ability to connect with voters on a personal level.
  • The belief that an individual's life chances are inextricably tied to the fate of their racial or ethnic group. (correct)
  • The tendency for individuals to make political decisions based solely on their economic self-interest.

How does the 'gender gap' typically manifest in voting behavior?

  • The gender gap only appears in local elections, not national ones.
  • Men and women vote similarly across all political issues.
  • Women tend to vote more conservatively than men.
  • Men tend to vote more conservatively than women. (correct)

What is a key distinction between political parties and interest groups in the U.S. political system?

  • Political parties are prohibited from lobbying government officials, unlike interest groups.
  • Political parties aim to control government by winning elections, while interest groups advocate for specific policy agendas. (correct)
  • Interest groups are typically larger and more diverse in membership than political parties.
  • Political parties primarily focus on influencing specific policies, while interest groups nominate candidates for elections.

Which of the following Supreme Court cases had the most significant impact on campaign finance regulations?

<p>Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Political Action Committee (PAC)?

<p>To raise and spend money to elect and defeat candidates. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the best definition of 'judicial review'?

<p>The power of the courts to declare laws unconstitutional. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role do 'precedents' play in the judicial process?

<p>They serve as guidelines for future decisions, promoting consistency and predictability in the legal system. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of digital political engagement?

<p>Sharing a political article on social media. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is 'partisan gerrymandering' and why is it controversial?

<p>The act of redrawing legislative district boundaries to benefit the incumbent party, leading to unfair political advantage. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to political scientists Suzanne Mettler and Robert C. Lieberman, what poses a recurring threat to American democracy?

<p>Polarization, plutocracy, administrative evil, and nativism. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Political Socialization

The process through which individuals acquire their political beliefs and values. It is influenced by family, education, peers, and media.

Linked Fate

The belief that one's own well-being is connected to the fate of their group, influencing how they interpret information and make decisions.

Gender Gap

The difference in political attitudes and voting behavior between men and women. For example, women are more likely to support Democratic candidates.

Roles of the Media

Informs the public. Acts as a watchdog over government. Shapes public opinion and sets the political agenda.

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Education, Income, and Voting

Higher levels of education and income are generally associated with increased voter turnout and specific partisan preferences.

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Partisanship

Strong allegiance to one's political party, affecting policy preferences, voting behavior, and political discourse.

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Partisan Gerrymandering

Manipulating district boundaries for electoral advantage, giving one party an unfair advantage.

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Function of a PAC

To raise and spend money to elect and defeat candidates; focus on campaign finance.

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Precedents

Legal decisions that serve as guides for similar future cases, ensuring consistency and predictability.

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Judicial Review

The power of the courts to declare laws unconstitutional, originating from Marbury v. Madison; ensures laws align with the Constitution.

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Study Notes

  • The exam consists of five short answer questions and one essay question.
  • The exam is closed note and closed book.
  • A Greenbook is needed for the exam.

Short Answer Questions

  • Write 2-3 sentences for each short answer question.

  • Aim to spend about 10 minutes per question.

  • Define "political socialization" and explain how it occurs.

  • Define "linked fate" and its effects on how individuals evaluate information.

  • Define "gender gap" and give an example of its impact on voting behavior.

  • Describe three important roles of the media in American democracy and identify the most important one.

  • Describe the relationship between education, income, and voting in the United States.

  • Define partisanship and its effects on politics in the U.S.

  • Identify the four recurring threats to American democracy, according to Suzanne Mettler and Robert C. Lieberman.

  • Discuss the roles of parties in government and their effectiveness in passing policy agendas.

  • Define partisan gerrymandering and why it is controversial.

  • State the primary function of a PAC (Political Action Committee).

  • Explain the significance of the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010).

  • Define "precedents" and their importance in the judicial process.

  • Define judicial review, its origin, and importance.

  • Define judicial activism and judicial restraint and how these philosophies shape justices' decision-making process.

  • Give at least three examples of digital political participation and identify the most effective form.

Essay Questions

  • Write a short essay (4-6 paragraphs) for the essay question.

  • Include a clear thesis statement, descriptive body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

  • Aim to spend about 30 minutes on the essay.

  • Discuss what causes people's opinions to change over time.

  • Reference John Zaller's three-stage model of opinion formation and the "online processing model" of opinion change.

  • Identify a contemporary political controversy with changes in American public opinion and explain the change.

  • Describe different strategies used by interest groups to gain influence on public policy, with specific examples.

  • Describe the three major factors that influence voters' decisions in elections.

  • Provide examples from recent elections to illustrate the role of each factor in determining how people voted.

  • Describe the role of money in campaigns.

  • Explain how campaign donations and spending are regulated in the United States.

  • Describe how the Supreme Court has interpreted the First Amendment regarding campaign finance in recent years with regard to campaign finance and its impact on American politics.

  • Explore the role of political parties in American politics.

  • Discuss the differences between political parties and interest groups and how parties contribute to democratic government and perpetuate existing conflicts in society.

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