What is political culture?
The sum of patterns, habits, traditions, values, beliefs, and attitudes about politics in a community
Political culture is often accepted without question by the community.
How do people perceive political events, parties, or figures in relation to political culture?
They are judged as normal (acceptable) or abnormal (unacceptable) based on their fit with the dominant political culture
This perception is influenced by what seems ‘normal’ to the community.
Is political culture uniform across Texas?
No, Texas has an overarching political culture but also contains political subcultures
These subcultures may oppose or vary from the dominant culture.
What do some subcultures in Texas do in relation to the dominant political culture?
- Oppose it
- Value their differences from it
Some subcultures see themselves as resisting the dominant culture.
True or false: Political culture in Texas is static and unchanging.
FALSE
Political culture is always changing, especially quickly in Texas.
As of 2012, what percentage of Texas residents were born in Texas?
61%
This indicates a significant number of residents are newcomers, contributing to the state’s diverse cultural landscape.
What does the constant inflow of cultural practices and mindsets in Texas contribute to?
New waves to the currents of Texas political culture
This ongoing change influences the political dynamics and cultural identity of Texas.
What is the simplistic way to define the dominant culture of Texas?
Conservative
The conservatism in Texas is a mix of different conservative attitudes that can sometimes contradict themselves.
Culture is the product of historical events, peoples, and ideas flowing together in a stream that pushes politics in a certain direction, but is often _______.
chaotic
Culture is both the cause and result of heated disputes among groups and individuals.
What are the three basic strands that make up conservatism in Texas today?
- Traditional Conservatism
- Individualist Conservatism
- Moralistic Conservatism
Each strand contributes to the overall conservative attitude in Texas.
The thematic root of conservatism is to conserve the way things are, or used to be. True or False?
TRUE
This can be confusing as different people have different views on what is important about ‘how things are.’
What does Traditionalism emphasize in terms of social structure?
- Respect for established power-structure
- Obedience to those in higher ranks
- Knowing one’s place in society
Traditionalism is linked to a deep appreciation for the established order.
In Texas, traditionalism often endows authority in the _______.
father
Patriarchy is a major aspect of traditionalism, influencing political dynamics.
What are two distinct types of advantage that male candidates have in Texas politics due to traditionalism?
- Women are less likely to run as candidates
- Voters feel more comfortable voting for men
These advantages contribute to the underrepresentation of women in political office.
In the Texas Republican primary of 2010, who was the female candidate challenging Rick Perry?
Kay Bailey Hutchison
Hutchison aimed to be the first female Republican governor of Texas.
What was the outcome of the Republican primary between Rick Perry and Kay Bailey Hutchison?
Rick Perry won
Despite Hutchison’s popularity, voters felt more comfortable with Perry, reflecting traditional conservative attitudes.
What is the thematic root of conservatism?
To “conserve” the way things are, or used to be
This can vary based on individual perspectives and memories of the past.
How do different people view the history of cotton-growing in the American South?
- Hard work and risk-taking of ancestors
- Cultural memories of slavery and inhuman treatment
These differing views illustrate how tradition is perceived based on personal associations.
What is Traditionalism linked to?
- Deep respect for established power-structure
- Appreciation and trust in tradition
- Belief in social hierarchy and obedience
Traditionalism often emphasizes knowing one’s place in society.
In Texas, what was a major source of prestige in the 19th and 20th centuries?
Family holdings of land
This reflects the importance of land ownership in social status.
What role does patriarchy play in traditionalism?
Endows authority in the father
This aspect of traditionalism is still strong in Texas culture today.
Why are there often fewer female candidates for political office?
- Women are less likely to put themselves forward
- Cultural deference to traditionalism
This results in fewer ballot opportunities for voters to choose women.
True or false: Voters often feel more comfortable voting for a man over a woman for positions of power.
TRUE
This reflects the patriarchal aspect of traditionalism.
What was the outcome of the Texas Republican primary of 2010 between Rick Perry and Kay Bailey Hutchison?
Kay Bailey Hutchison lost to Rick Perry
Despite Hutchison’s popularity, voters felt more comfortable with Perry, illustrating traditional conservatism.
