American Political Culture

Political CultureDefinition: a distinctive and patterned way of

thinking about how political and economic life out to be carried out.

So, how should our gov’t carry on politically and economically?

Our Political SystemThe duties of our gov’t should be carried out

according to the following elements:a.Libertyb.Democracyc.Equalityd.Civic duty

Has the gov’t successfully carried out these four elements?

Has the US experienced political conflict? When?

Economic SystemAmericans support free

enterprise but want limits on the marketplace…Why?

Americans prefer quality of opportunity to equality of result…Explain.

Americans have a shared commitment to economic individualism and self-reliance…Huh???

Role of ReligionAmericans are highly religiousReligion has driven our politicsLiberals and conservatives use religion to

promote political changeAre these statements true? Explain.

Sources of our Political Thinking1. Revolution2. Distrust of authority3. Political parties4. Religious diversity5. Family values6. Class distinctions7. Technology

Which factor listed above has the most influence on our political thinking?

Explain.

Do we Mistrust our Gov’t?Do we? Explain.Since 1950, the majority say yes…

Why?1.Vietnam2.Watergate3.Clinton4.9115.Housing bust

Remember, distrust of our officials does not necessarily mean distrust of our gov’t.

Questions1.What is the biggest factor that shapes your political thinking? Explain.

2.What is the biggest factor that shapes public opinion? Explain.

3.Are interest groups good or bad for the American government? Explain.