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 is because younger individuals may face barriers to voting such as lack of awareness about the importance of voting, limited access to transportation to polling stations, and conflicting priorities such as work or studies. Additionally, younger individuals may feel disconnected from the political process and may not see their vote as making a significant impact.
2.
Which of the following is NOT an example of public good?
Correct Answer
A. Welfare benefits
Explanation
Welfare benefits are not an example of a public good because they are not non-excludable and non-rivalrous. Public goods are goods or services that are available to everyone and their consumption by one individual does not reduce the availability for others. In the case of welfare benefits, they are typically targeted towards specific individuals or groups and their distribution is limited. Therefore, welfare benefits do not meet the criteria of 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" suggests that politics is concerned with the distribution of resources and power in a society. It implies that politics involves the competition and negotiation among individuals or groups to gain control over scarce resources and determine how they are allocated. This definition highlights the central role of power dynamics and decision-making processes in political systems.
4.
America has one of the highest voter turnout rates in the world
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false. While the United States has a relatively high population, its voter turnout rates are not among the highest in the world. In fact, voter turnout in the United States has historically been lower compared to many other developed countries. Factors such as voter registration requirements, access to polling places, and the timing of elections can influence voter turnout rates.
5.
Single-issue groups
Correct Answer
D. Have little taste for compromise
Explanation
Single-issue groups often focus on a specific problem or cause, which means they have a narrow focus and a strong commitment to their cause. This strong commitment can lead to a lack of willingness to compromise with opposing viewpoints or consider alternative solutions. Their dedication to their specific issue may make them less open to finding common ground or seeking consensus, resulting in a "little taste for compromise." This can make it challenging for them to effectively engage in the policymaking process, as compromise and collaboration are often necessary for successful policy outcomes.
6.
Political issues get government's attention through linkage institutions
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Linkage institutions, such as political parties, interest groups, and the media, play a crucial role in connecting the public to the government. They serve as channels through which political issues and concerns are communicated to the government. These institutions help to raise awareness, mobilize public opinion, and advocate for policy changes. Therefore, it is true that political issues can 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 serves as a bridge between the government and the public. It plays a crucial role in providing information, shaping public opinion, and facilitating communication between citizens and policymakers. Through various platforms such as newspapers, television, radio, and the internet, the media disseminates news, investigates government actions, and holds those in power accountable. It acts as a channel through which citizens can express their concerns, voice their opinions, and participate in the political process. Therefore, the media is an essential institution that connects the government and the people, making it a valid answer in this context.
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 problems or issues that receive significant attention and consideration from public officials. It implies that these problems are not ignored but rather given serious attention.
9.
Which of the following policymaking institutions was NOT established by the Constitution?
Correct Answer
B. The bureaucracy
Explanation
The bureaucracy was not established by the Constitution. The Constitution only establishes the three branches of government - Congress, the presidency, and the courts. The bureaucracy, on the other hand, is a part of the executive branch that is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws passed by Congress. While the Constitution does provide for the executive branch, it does not specifically establish the bureaucracy as a separate institution.
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 the actions or choices that the government decides not to take. Public policy is a broad term that encompasses various aspects of government actions and decision-making processes.
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 is no single dominant group that shapes policymaking, but rather it is a result of the competition and interaction among various influential groups. They believe that the system allows for multiple access points and diverse interests, which prevents any single group from consistently prevailing and ensures that policymaking reflects a balance of power and interests.
12.
Hyperpluralism can lead to
Correct Answer
B. Muddled and inconsistent policy
Explanation
Hyperpluralism refers to a situation where there are numerous interest groups with significant power and influence in the political system. When there is an excessive number of groups and a lack of a dominant group, it becomes difficult for the government to make coherent and consistent policies. This is because the government may face conflicting demands and pressures from different interest groups, making it challenging to establish a clear direction. As a result, the policies may become muddled and inconsistent, lacking a unified approach.
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, it often leads to policy gridlock. This is because the parties have different priorities and ideologies, making it difficult for them to agree on and pass legislation. As a result, policies may be delayed or even blocked altogether, leading to a stalemate in the decision-making process. This can hinder progress and make it challenging for the government to effectively address pressing issues and implement necessary reforms.
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 fundamental concept that ensures the protection and inclusion of minority groups within a society. It operates alongside the principle of majority rule, which emphasizes that decisions should be made by the majority of the population. While majority rule allows for the expression of the will of the majority, minority rights ensure that the rights and interests of minority groups are not disregarded or oppressed. This balance between majority rule and minority rights is crucial for a democratic society to maintain fairness, equality, and inclusivity.
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 phrase "cherished the idea of democracy" being contrasted with "had no fondness for democracy". It suggests that while the writers of the US Constitution appreciated the concept of democracy, they did not necessarily support or favor it.