political culture
set of shared attitudes that shape political behavior
political ideology
set of ethical ideas, principles, etc of a social movement, institution, or large group
liberal views
- individual rights
- broadminded
- active supporters of social and political change in govt structure
conservative views
- private property and enterprise
- maintenance of a strong military
- preservation of traditional cultural values and institutions
libertarian
the govt should have minimal interference in their personal, family, and business decisions
political socialization
process by which one develops political beliefs
influences: family, school, peers, location, media, race, gender, etc
opinion poll
gauges attitudes on issues or support for candidates (cross section of pop)
benchmark poll
gather general info about people’s views and concerns
tracking poll
ask people same/similar qs over time to track path of public opinion
entrance/exit poll
when ppl enter or exit the voting booth and are asked how they will or did vote
wedge issue
one that sharply divides the public
valence issue
one most americans agree on, regardless of party
5 core beliefs of american political culture
- individualism
- equality of opportunity
- free enterprise
- rule of law
- limited govt
republican views
- private biz/investments
- religion in gov
- limit lgbtq rights
- healthcare only in private companies
- don’t help climate at cost of economy
- individual unalienable rights
- lower taxes
- strong military
- limit immigration
- no abortion
- govt stay out of personal life
- yes guns
democratic views
- protect religious rights but separate church and state
- transparent govt
- end all discrimination
- social aspects of economy are important
- support lgbtq
- tax reforms
- yes on abortion
- access to healthcare
- strong and civil military relations
libertarian views
- max autonomy and political freedom
- min power of state over individual liberties
- civil and political rights
- bodily autonomy
- freedom of expression, choice, …..
elements of a scientific poll
random sample, stratification, margin of error
