Chapter 1 Reading

• Religion is an example of politics.

  Impacts on the Government:

  ~Some view as gov't support pushing religion

  ~Some take advantage (starting skinhead clubs ECT)

  ~Allows everyone to practice their religion without prosecution and a public group to support them.
• Sexuality is an example of politics.

  Impacts on Gov't:

  ~Some say gov't pushing "gay agenda"

  ~Allows people to love who they want without prosecution from the gov't.
• Petitioning the Government allows the public's voices to be heard.

  Impacts on Gov't:

  ~Allows the people to have a say in their gov't and be the ones in control.
• Ancient Greeks and Romans are historical models for US govt

  
  

  Impacts:

  ~Democracy: being governed by the people
• Locke was a historical model of US gov't.

  Impact:

  ~Natural Rights -god given rights.

  ~Social Contract -if the gov't doesn't protect ppl, overthrow them
• Montesquieu was a historical model for US gov't.

  Impacts:

  ~Separation of Powers
• David Hume was a historical model for US gov't.

  Impacts:

  ~Design the gov't to keep people from using power incorrectly/greedily
• Participatory Democracy Theory:

  ~Widespread participation

  ~Civil Society Groups: Independent associations outside of gov't control

  ~People should join groups in their communities to develop new ideas and perspectives and work for the common good (Putman's Theory)
• Pluralist Theory:

  ~Political process influenced by like-minded groups of citizens.

  ~Emphasizes roles of groups

  ~Interest groups advocate for their own interests ex-AARP (old people)

  ~Groups compete in the political process

  ~Many ways to contact gov't: donate to campaign, lawsuit filing, contact gov't office

  ~Groups weak in one recourse are strong in others (ex: low money, many people)
• Elitist Theory:

  ~Small minority with most economic and political power

  ~influence elected officers - wealthy interest groups/people

  ~more money = more influence

  ~Big Business > sway < Small Business

  ~Growing Income Gap Concern

  ~Top $$ makers have too much control/power in politics

  ~Rich get more benefits (tax exemptions, etc) than poor (social security, etc)
• U.S Constitution protects American people's fundamental rights
• Constitutional Republic:

  ~A Democratic system with elected representatives in which the Constitution is Supreme Law

  ~Americans elect representatives to make laws and policies rather than personally voting on those laws/polices.