American Political Culture and Beliefs Unit 4 American Political Culture and Beliefs

4.1 American Political Culture

Key Definitions Political Culture: a common set of widely shared political beliefs and values Beliefs and values: deep rooted ideals that shape an individual’s perception of political issues Opinion: a specific view about a particular issue or event Public opinion: attitudes about institutions, leaders, political issues and events Political efficacy: an individuals belief about how much their actions have an impact on government

Core values of American political culture Liberty and freedom Equality of opportunity Individualism Democracy Free enterprise Rule of law Limited government The British political writer GK Chesterton observed that America is the only nation in the world that was founded on a creed Although a diverse culture, political culture provides a broad consensus that shapes and limits the public debate bout political issues Consensus of basic concepts, democracy is not guaranteed, therefore the American people must continue to practice these concepts to protect it.

Liberty and freedom Guarantees of civil liberties and protections of infringements upon them Freedom of speech and religion are fundamental parts of the American political culture People should be free to lead their lives with minimal government interference Private property ownership of property is protected by law and supported by the capitalist system

Equality of Opportunity Equality of every person before the law and in the political process Political equality: all adult citizens should have the equal voting rights Legal equality: everyone is entitled to equal treatment before the law Equality of opportunity: all Americans should have chance to succeed in life

individualism Respect of the dignity and importance of each individual People should be responsible for their own actions and choices

democracy Government should be based on the consent of the governed The rights of the minority should be r3espected and protected Citizens have a responsibility to support their local communities Compromise allows for the combining of different interests and opinions to form public policy to the best benefit of society.

Rule of law 1. Accountability The government as well as private actors are accountable under the law. 2. Just Laws The laws are clear, publicized, stable, and just; are applied evenly; and protect fundamental rights, including the security of persons and property and certain core human rights. 3. Open Government The processes by which the laws are enacted, administered, and enforced are accessible, fair, and efficient. 4. Accessible & Impartial Dispute Resolution Justice is delivered timely by competent, ethical, and independent representatives and neutrals who are accessible, have adequate resources, and reflect the makeup of the communities they serve.

Free enterprise an economic system in which private business operates in competition and largely free of state contro

Limited government The powers of government are restricted in a democracy by the will of the people and the rule of law

How has American’s view of their government changed since the 1950’s what can this be attributed to? Less trusting of government and political institutions Linked to a decline in political efficacy

How have American political culture changed over time? Discussion George W. Bush (2001-2009) due to war on terror, power of government should be expanded Obama 2009-2017 “tea Party” believed the power of the federal government hat become to big and needed to be limited