1.
The age group with the lowest voter turnout rate is
Correct Answer
A. 25 or younger
Explanation
The age group with the lowest voter turnout rate is 25 or younger. This may be because individuals in this age group are often less politically engaged or may feel disconnected from the political process. They may also face barriers such as lack of information or transportation to polling stations. Additionally, younger individuals may have competing priorities or may not see the immediate impact of their vote on their lives. Overall, this age group tends to have lower voter turnout compared to older age groups.
2.
Which of the following is NOT an example of a public good?
Correct Answer
A. Welfare benefits
Explanation
Welfare benefits are not an example of a public good because they are not available to everyone in society. Public goods are non-excludable, meaning that once they are provided, no one can be excluded from benefiting from them. However, welfare benefits are typically targeted towards specific individuals or groups who meet certain criteria, and not everyone in society has access to them. Therefore, welfare benefits do not meet the criteria of being a public good.
3.
Harold Lasswell's definition of politics is
Correct Answer
C. "who gets what, when, and how"
Explanation
Harold Lasswell's definition of politics as "who gets what, when, and how" refers to the distribution of power, resources, and benefits within a society. It emphasizes the fundamental aspects of political decision-making, including the allocation of goods, services, and opportunities among different individuals or groups. This definition highlights the crucial role of politics in determining how resources are distributed and how decisions are made, ultimately shaping the dynamics of power and influencing the outcomes of societal processes.
4.
America has one of the highest voter turnout rates in the world
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The given statement is false. America does not have one of the highest voter turnout rates in the world. In fact, compared to many other developed countries, the voter turnout rate in America is relatively low. Several factors contribute to this, including the complexity of the voting process, lack of accessibility, and voter apathy.
5.
Single-issue groups
Correct Answer
D. Have little taste for compromise
Explanation
Single-issue groups often prioritize their specific cause above all else and are less willing to compromise on their demands. They tend to be focused on a narrow range of problems and are driven by a strong passion for their cause. This lack of willingness to compromise can make it challenging for them to effectively engage in the policymaking process, as compromise and negotiation are often necessary to achieve meaningful policy outcomes. As a result, their influence on voters may be limited, as they may struggle to appeal to a broader range of concerns and perspectives.
6.
Political issues get government's attention through linkage institutions
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Linkage institutions are channels through which individuals can express their preferences, concerns, and demands to the government. These institutions include political parties, interest groups, and the media. They play a crucial role in shaping the political agenda and bringing attention to various issues. By mobilizing public opinion, organizing protests, or influencing policy debates, these institutions can effectively draw the government's attention towards political issues. Therefore, it is true that political issues get the government's attention through linkage institutions.
7.
One type of linkage institution is
Correct Answer
C. The media
Explanation
The media is considered a type of linkage institution because it acts as a bridge between the government and the public. It plays a crucial role in disseminating information, shaping public opinion, and holding the government accountable. Through various mediums such as newspapers, television, and the internet, the media provides a platform for citizens to access and engage with political information. It helps in connecting the government's policies and actions with the public, enabling the exchange of ideas and influencing public opinion. Therefore, the media serves as a vital linkage institution in a democratic society.
8.
A policy agenda
Correct Answer
C. A list of problems to which serious attention is paid
Explanation
This answer suggests that a policy agenda is a comprehensive list of issues or problems that are given significant attention and consideration by public officials. It implies that these problems are not ignored and are considered important enough to be addressed and resolved.
9.
Which of the following policymaking institutions was NOT established by the Constitution?
Correct Answer
B. The bureaucracy
Explanation
The correct answer is "the bureaucracy." The Constitution does not explicitly establish a bureaucratic institution. While the Constitution outlines the powers and responsibilities of Congress, the presidency, and the courts, it does not specifically mention the bureaucracy. The bureaucracy is a term used to refer to the administrative agencies and departments that are created by Congress to implement and enforce laws. These agencies are created through legislation rather than being established by the Constitution itself. Therefore, the bureaucracy is not directly established by the Constitution.
10.
Public policy
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because public policy encompasses laws passed by Congress, involves making decisions, and also includes what the government chooses not to do. Public policy refers to the actions and decisions taken by the government to address societal issues and achieve specific goals. This can involve the creation of laws, regulations, and programs, as well as the decision to not take certain actions. Therefore, all the given options accurately describe different aspects of public policy.
11.
Pluralists argue that
Correct Answer
B. The American policymaking system is a competition among many groups
Explanation
The correct answer is that the American policymaking system is a competition among many groups. Pluralists argue that there isn't just a small number of influential groups shaping American policymaking, but rather a multitude of groups competing for influence. This perspective suggests that no single group dominates the policymaking process and that power is dispersed among various interest groups. Pluralists also believe that this competition among groups ultimately leads to a more balanced and representative policy outcome, as different perspectives and interests are taken into account.
12.
Hyperpluralism can lead to
Correct Answer
B. Muddled and inconsistent policy
Explanation
Hyperpluralism is a political theory that suggests when there are too many interest groups and factions competing for influence, it can lead to muddled and inconsistent policy. This is because with numerous groups vying for attention and resources, it becomes difficult for the government to make coherent decisions and implement consistent policies. The diverse range of demands and conflicting interests can result in a lack of clear direction and compromise, leading to policies that may not effectively address the needs of the society as a whole.
13.
A common consequence of the situation in which different parties control the presidency and Congress is
Correct Answer
C. Policy gridlock
Explanation
When different parties control the presidency and Congress, there is often a lack of agreement and cooperation between them. This leads to policy gridlock, where it becomes difficult to pass new legislation or make significant policy changes. Each party has its own agenda and priorities, making it challenging to find common ground and reach compromises. This can result in a stalemate, with little progress being made on important issues.
14.
In democratic theory, the principle of minority rights accompanies the priniciple of
Correct Answer
A. Majority rule
Explanation
In democratic theory, the principle of minority rights is a crucial component that goes hand in hand with the principle of majority rule. While majority rule ensures that decisions are made by the majority, minority rights protect the interests and rights of individuals or groups who may be in the minority. This ensures that the voices and concerns of minority groups are not ignored or overridden by the majority, promoting fairness and inclusivity in a democratic society.
15.
The writers of the US Constitution
Correct Answer
C. Had no fondness for democracy
Explanation
The correct answer is "had no fondness for democracy". This can be inferred from the statement that the writers of the US Constitution "cherished the idea of democracy" and "favored government by the people". The phrase "had no fondness for democracy" presents a contrast to these previous statements, suggesting that the writers did not actually support or have a liking for democracy.