PLSC 103 Final Exam Study Guide
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jacksontheninja06PLSC 103 Final Exam Study Guide
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Powered by AIChecks and balances refer to the system where each branch of government can oversee and limit the functions of the others to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. This system is enabled by the separation of powers, which divides governance among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, each with distinct and independent powers .
Gerrymandering manipulates reapportionment and redistricting by drawing electoral district boundaries in a way that advantages a particular political party. This manipulation can dilute the voting power of certain demographics, creating districts that are 'safe' for a party and reducing competitiveness, which can lead to imbalanced representation not reflective of the general electorate .
Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review, allowing the Supreme Court to declare acts of Congress unconstitutional. This case is significant because it empowered the judiciary to check the other branches of government, ensuring that legislative and executive actions comply with the Constitution .
Swing states, also known as battleground states, are crucial in presidential elections due to their lack of predictable outcomes and potential to swing to either major political party. Candidates focus extensive resources on these states to gain their electoral votes, often deciding the election outcome due to the winner-take-all approach in most states .
The Virginia Plan proposed representation based on population size, favoring larger states, while the New Jersey Plan called for equal representation for all states regardless of size. The differences were resolved by the Connecticut Compromise, which established a bicameral legislature with population-based representation in the House and equal representation in the Senate .
Shays’ Rebellion highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation by demonstrating the federal government's inability to maintain public order or support a standing army to suppress uprisings. This rebellion spurred the call for a stronger national government and ultimately led to the drafting of the US Constitution, which provided for a more robust federal structure .
Filibusters can benefit the Senate by providing a tool for minority groups to extend debate and delay or block legislation they consider flawed. However, they can also obstruct legislative progress and lead to partisan standoffs, potentially stalling important policy decisions. Balancing these pros and cons remains a contentious issue in legislative procedures .
Standing committees are permanent bodies that evaluate proposed legislation in specific areas, conducting hearings and shaping bills before they're voted on by the full chamber. Conference committees, on the other hand, temporarily reconcile differences between House and Senate versions of a bill to produce a compromise for final passage. Each serves to refine and streamline the legislative process .
Dual federalism, often likened to a ‘layer cake,’ involves clearly defined separations between state and federal powers, with each level of government operating independently in its own sphere. In contrast, cooperative federalism, or a ‘marble cake,’ features a blending of responsibilities and cooperation between state and federal governments, particularly in areas where their duties overlap .
Political socialization is the process by which individuals acquire political beliefs and values, often influenced by family, education, peers, media, and social environments. It shapes political engagement by forming the foundational beliefs that guide an individual's political attitudes, actions, and priorities .