Governmental Intervention Quiz Questions
- 1.
If someone believes that government can be a constructive force in individual lives their ideology is:
- A.
Conservatism
- B.
Liberalism
- C.
Centrism
- D.
Populism
Correct Answer
B. LiberalismExplanation
If someone believes that government can be a constructive force in individual lives, their ideology is liberalism. Liberalism promotes the idea that government intervention is necessary to ensure individual rights and promote social equality. It emphasizes the importance of individual freedom, civil liberties, and equal opportunities. Liberals believe that government should play an active role in addressing social and economic issues, providing social welfare programs, and protecting the rights of marginalized groups.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The term "civil liberties," refers to liberties that:
- A.
Apply in civil cases but not in criminal cases
- B.
Apply in civil cases but not in military ones
- C.
Are constitutionally protected from infringement by government
- D.
Are constitutionally protected from infringement by individuals
Correct Answer
C. Are constitutionally protected from infringement by governmentExplanation
Civil liberties are rights and freedoms that are protected by the constitution from being violated or restricted by the government. These liberties ensure that individuals have the freedom to express themselves, practice their religion, assemble peacefully, and have privacy, among other things. The government is obligated to respect and protect these rights, and any infringement on these liberties by the government would be considered unconstitutional. Therefore, the correct answer is that civil liberties are constitutionally protected from infringement by the government.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The individual right that is considered to be the most fundamental to the maintenance of a democratic society is:
- A.
The right to an attorney
- B.
Freedom of expression
- C.
The right to a jury trial
- D.
The right to an adequate education
Correct Answer
B. Freedom of expressionExplanation
Freedom of expression is considered to be the most fundamental right to the maintenance of a democratic society because it allows individuals to freely express their thoughts, opinions, and ideas without fear of censorship or punishment. This right is essential for the functioning of a democratic society as it promotes open dialogue, the exchange of diverse viewpoints, and the ability to hold those in power accountable. It is a cornerstone of democracy, enabling citizens to participate in public discourse, make informed decisions, and contribute to the shaping of society.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The supreme court's position on prior restraint of the press is that:
- A.
National security needs are of highest priority
- B.
Only classified government documents are subject to prior restraint
- C.
Prior restraint can never be exercised by government
- D.
Prior restraint should apply only in rare circumstances
Correct Answer
D. Prior restraint should apply only in rare circumstancesExplanation
The correct answer is that the Supreme Court's position on prior restraint of the press is that it should apply only in rare circumstances. This means that the government should only restrict the freedom of the press to publish information before it is released to the public in exceptional cases. The Supreme Court recognizes the importance of protecting the First Amendment rights of freedom of speech and the press, but also acknowledges that there may be situations where prior restraint is necessary to prevent harm or protect national interests.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The absorption of provisions of the Bill of Rights into the Fourteenth Amendment so that these rights are protected from infringements by the state governments is:
- A.
The preferred position doctrine
- B.
Procedural change
- C.
Selective incorporation
- D.
The absorption doctrine
Correct Answer
C. Selective incorporationExplanation
Selective incorporation is the correct answer because it refers to the process by which the rights and protections outlined in the Bill of Rights are applied to the states through the Fourteenth Amendment. This doctrine ensures that state governments are also bound by these constitutional rights and cannot infringe upon them. It has been established through various Supreme Court decisions over time, gradually incorporating specific rights on a case-by-case basis. The other options, such as the preferred position doctrine, procedural change, and the absorption doctrine, do not accurately describe this process of applying the Bill of Rights to the states.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The "establishment clause" prohibits government from:
- A.
Establishing exceptions to the Bill of Rights
- B.
Establishing exceptions to the 14th amendment
- C.
Favoring one religion over another or supporting religion over no religion
- D.
Interfering with the free exercise of religion
Correct Answer
C. Favoring one religion over another or supporting religion over no religionExplanation
The "establishment clause" refers to a clause in the First Amendment of the United States Constitution that prohibits the government from favoring one religion over another or supporting religion over no religion. This means that the government cannot show preference or provide special treatment to any particular religion, nor can it endorse or promote religion over non-religious beliefs. The establishment clause ensures that the government remains neutral in matters of religion and respects the freedom of individuals to practice their own beliefs or choose not to follow any religion.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The ideology that emphasized that government has little obligation to improve individual lives is called:
- A.
Conservatism
- B.
Liberalism
- C.
Centrism
- D.
Populism
Correct Answer
A. ConservatismExplanation
Conservatism is the correct answer because it is an ideology that emphasizes limited government intervention in individual lives. Conservatives believe in preserving traditional values and institutions, advocating for personal responsibility and self-reliance rather than relying on the government to improve individual lives. They prioritize limited government interference in the economy and social issues, promoting individual freedoms and free markets.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Like all other rights, the right of free expression is:
- A.
Spelled out in precise terms in the Bill of Rights.
- B.
Not absolute
- C.
Fully respected by public officials
- D.
Protected from action by federal officials but not state officials
Correct Answer
B. Not absoluteExplanation
The right of free expression is not absolute because there are limitations and restrictions placed on it. While individuals have the freedom to express their opinions and ideas, there are certain circumstances where this right can be limited, such as when it poses a threat to national security or incites violence. These limitations are necessary to maintain social order and protect the rights and well-being of others. Therefore, although the right of free expression is a fundamental right, it is not without limitations.Rate this question:
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- 9.
The freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and petition are found in:
- A.
The 1st amend.
- B.
The 4th amend.
- C.
The 6th amend.
- D.
The 10th amend.
Correct Answer
A. The 1st amend.Explanation
The correct answer is the 1st amendment. The freedoms of speech, press, assembly, and petition are protected by the 1st amendment of the United States Constitution. This amendment ensures that individuals have the right to express their opinions, publish information, gather peacefully, and address grievances to the government. It is a fundamental aspect of democracy and allows for the free exchange of ideas and opinions.Rate this question:
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- 10.
If someone yells fire in a crowded theater when there is no fire, and people are hurt in the ensuing panic, that individual abused his freedom of speech according to the doctrine of:
- A.
Malice
- B.
Clear and present danger
- C.
Unlawful assembly
- D.
Privacy
Correct Answer
B. Clear and present dangerExplanation
The doctrine of clear and present danger states that the freedom of speech can be limited if the speech presents a clear and present danger to public safety or order. In this scenario, the individual yelling fire in a crowded theater causes panic and harm to people, demonstrating a clear and present danger. Therefore, this action can be considered an abuse of freedom of speech according to this doctrine.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Disadvantaged Americans have gained their rights:
- A.
Through the enlightened policies of advantaged Americans
- B.
Through judicial action only
- C.
Through struggle against entrenched interests
- D.
Mainly through action by the states rather than the federal government
Correct Answer
C. Through struggle against entrenched interestsExplanation
The correct answer is through struggle against entrenched interests. This means that disadvantaged Americans have had to fight against powerful and established groups or individuals who are resistant to change. They have had to overcome obstacles and resistance in order to gain their rights and achieve equality. This answer suggests that the rights of disadvantaged Americans were not simply given to them, but rather were hard-fought and earned through perseverance and determination.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Before the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, the political strategy of black Americans centered on achieving change through:
- A.
Judicial action
- B.
Legislative action
- C.
Presidential action
- D.
Bureaucratic action
Correct Answer
A. Judicial actionExplanation
Before the civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s, black Americans focused on achieving change through judicial action. This strategy involved using the courts to challenge discriminatory laws and practices, such as segregation, and to fight for equal rights and protections. Prominent examples include the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case, which led to the desegregation of schools, and the Montgomery Bus Boycott, which challenged racial segregation on public transportation. By pursuing legal avenues, black Americans sought to challenge and overturn discriminatory practices and achieve equality under the law.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954) held that racial segregation in schools violated the:
- A.
Due process clause of the 5th amend.
- B.
Due process clause of the 14th amend.
- C.
Equal protection clause of the 14th amend.
- D.
Civil rights act
Correct Answer
C. Equal protection clause of the 14th amend.Explanation
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka (1954) held that racial segregation in schools violated the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment. The equal protection clause states that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. In the case of Brown v. Board of Education, the Supreme Court ruled that separate educational facilities for black and white students were inherently unequal and therefore violated the equal protection clause. This landmark decision played a significant role in desegregating public schools in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Native Americans:
- A.
Today number more than 1 million
- B.
Have lower life expectancies than the national average
- C.
Were not given citizenship until 1924
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because all three statements are true. Native Americans today number more than 1 million, have lower life expectancies than the national average, and were not given citizenship until 1924.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Opponents of affirmative action have argued that it:
- A.
Results in widespread reverse discrimination against white males
- B.
Inevitably degenerates into a quota system, and therefore violates the law
- C.
Is fair only when it is "victim specific," applying only to those individuals, who are personally discriminated against and hence deserve to benefit from government intervention
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. Is fair only when it is "victim specific," applying only to those individuals, who are personally discriminated against and hence deserve to benefit from government interventionExplanation
The opponents of affirmative action argue that it is fair only when it is "victim specific," meaning that it should only apply to individuals who have personally experienced discrimination and therefore deserve government intervention to benefit from it. They believe that affirmative action should not result in widespread reverse discrimination against white males or degenerate into a quota system, as these actions would violate the law. Therefore, the correct answer is that affirmative action is fair only when it is "victim specific."Rate this question:
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- 16.
In the University of California Regents v. Bakke case, the Supreme Court:
- A.
Invalidated the principle of affirmative action
- B.
Ruled that Bakke should be admitted to medical school
- C.
Endorsed quota systems as a legitimate basis of affirmative action
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Ruled that Bakke should be admitted to medical schoolExplanation
In the University of California Regents v. Bakke case, the Supreme Court ruled that Bakke should be admitted to medical school. This decision was based on the finding that the university's admission policy, which set aside a certain number of seats for minority students, was unconstitutional. The Court concluded that while race could be considered as a factor in admissions, the use of quotas was not permissible. Therefore, the Court's ruling in this case did not endorse quota systems as a legitimate basis of affirmative action.Rate this question:
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- 17.
In regard to affirmative action, the Supreme Court in recent years has:
- A.
Moved to outlaw it
- B.
Moved to narrow its application
- C.
Asked Congress to clarify the policy
- D.
Asked the president to clarify the policy
Correct Answer
B. Moved to narrow its applicationExplanation
The correct answer is "moved to narrow its application." This means that the Supreme Court has taken actions to limit or reduce the scope of affirmative action policies rather than completely outlawing them. This suggests that the Court has not completely rejected the idea of affirmative action but has instead sought to make it more specific or restricted in certain cases.Rate this question:
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- 18.
All of the following statements about Hispanic Americans are true except
- A.
They are the fastest-growing minority in the United States
- B.
They have made major political gains in terms of electing local officials, particularly in the Southwestern states
- C.
They are one of the nation's older ethnic groups despite the fact that many of today's Hispanic Americans are relatively recent arrivals
- D.
They are generally uniform in their political thinking and, whatever their country of origin, they tend to vote Democratic
Correct Answer
D. They are generally uniform in their political thinking and, whatever their country of origin, they tend to vote DemocraticExplanation
The given answer states that Hispanic Americans are generally uniform in their political thinking and tend to vote Democratic, which is not true. Hispanic Americans, like any other ethnic group, have diverse political opinions and voting patterns. While some may lean towards the Democratic Party, others may align with the Republican Party or have independent political views. Therefore, the statement that Hispanic Americans are generally uniform in their political thinking and tend to vote Democratic is incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Today, the majority of African-Americans in the nation:
- A.
Live in neighborhoods that are fully integrated
- B.
Send their children to schools that are mostly African-American
- C.
Both A and B are true
- D.
Both A and B are false
Correct Answer
B. Send their children to schools that are mostly African-AmericanExplanation
The correct answer is "send their children to schools that are mostly African-American." This answer suggests that the majority of African-Americans in the nation choose to send their children to schools where the student population is predominantly African-American. This indicates that there is still a level of racial segregation in the education system, with African-American students being concentrated in certain schools.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The presidential election in which the Gallup Poll erred badly was
- A.
1928 Hoover-Smith
- B.
1948 Truman-Dewey
- C.
1964 Johnson-Goldwater
- D.
2000 Buse-Gore
Correct Answer
B. 1948 Truman-DeweyExplanation
In the 1948 presidential election between Truman and Dewey, the Gallup Poll made a significant error by predicting Dewey as the winner. This prediction was based on flawed polling methods and assumptions, leading to an inaccurate representation of public opinion. However, Truman ended up winning the election, defying the Gallup Poll's prediction and highlighting their mistake.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The key factor in determining the mathematical accuracy of an opinion poll is
- A.
Population size - if the population is too big, the poll's accuracy cannot be accurately assessed
- B.
Sample size - the sample must be over 1,500 for a poll to be accurate
- C.
Whether the sample was selected from the population by a random method
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. Whether the sample was selected from the population by a random methodExplanation
The key factor in determining the mathematical accuracy of an opinion poll is whether the sample was selected from the population by a random method. This is because a random sample ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected, which helps to minimize bias and increase the representativeness of the sample. Without a random selection method, the poll results may not accurately reflect the opinions of the entire population, leading to potential inaccuracies in the poll's findings.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Sources of polling error include:
- A.
Using polls not based on probability sampling
- B.
Use of an unrepresentative sample
- C.
Respondents' lack of knowledge or interest
- D.
All of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because each of the mentioned factors can contribute to polling errors. Using polls that are not based on probability sampling can introduce bias and make the results less representative of the population. Similarly, using an unrepresentative sample can lead to skewed results. Finally, respondents' lack of knowledge or interest can also affect the accuracy of the poll as it may lead to uninformed or biased responses.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Individuals acquire their basic opinions through:
- A.
Popular culture
- B.
Social communication
- C.
Socio-economic change
- D.
Political socialization
Correct Answer
D. Political socializationExplanation
Political socialization refers to the process through which individuals acquire their political beliefs, values, and opinions. It involves the transmission of political knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors from one generation to another. This process is influenced by various factors such as family, education, peer groups, media, and social institutions. Political socialization plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' basic opinions as it exposes them to different political ideologies, perspectives, and experiences, ultimately shaping their political identity and beliefs.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A consistent pattern of opinion on particular issues that stems from a basic underlying belief is called:
- A.
Conservatism
- B.
An ideology
- C.
Socialization
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. An ideologyExplanation
An ideology refers to a consistent pattern of opinion on particular issues that stems from a basic underlying belief. It encompasses a set of ideas, values, and beliefs that shape an individual's or a group's perspective on various issues. This term is commonly used to describe political or social beliefs and can be seen as a guiding framework that influences one's thoughts and actions in a specific direction. Conservatism, on the other hand, is a specific ideology that promotes traditional values and limited government intervention. Socialization refers to the process of acquiring values, norms, and behaviors through social interactions. Therefore, the correct answer is an ideology.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The fact that Americans want better schools but also favor tax reduction shows that opinions can be:
- A.
Motivated by emotion
- B.
Contradictory
- C.
Consistent
- D.
Based upon misinformation
Correct Answer
B. ContradictoryExplanation
The fact that Americans want better schools but also favor tax reduction shows that opinions can be contradictory. This means that people can hold conflicting views or preferences on different issues. In this case, individuals may recognize the importance of improving education but also prioritize reducing taxes, even if it means potentially compromising the quality of schools. This highlights the complexity and diversity of opinions within a population, where people may have different priorities and values that lead to contradictory stances on various matters.Rate this question:
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- 26.
In general, public opinion:
- A.
Determines government action
- B.
Is unrelated to government action
- C.
Sets broad limits on government action
- D.
Affects government action only on election issues
Correct Answer
C. Sets broad limits on government actionExplanation
Public opinion sets broad limits on government action because elected officials are accountable to the public and rely on their support to stay in power. While public opinion does not directly determine every government action, it does influence policy decisions and the overall direction of government actions. Public opinion can shape the priorities and agenda of elected officials, as they seek to align their actions with the desires and preferences of the public. However, it is important to note that public opinion is just one of many factors that influence government action, and there are other factors such as legal constraints, economic considerations, and international relations that also play a role.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Most studies on the influence of ideology on public opinion agree that
- A.
Liberalism and conservatism have suck imprecise meanings that it is not useful to think about politics in these terms
- B.
Americans overwhelmingly identify themselves as liberals
- C.
Americans are highly sophisticated in their political thinking
- D.
Only minority of Americans understand and apply ideological frames of reference
Correct Answer
D. Only minority of Americans understand and apply ideological frames of referenceExplanation
The correct answer is that only a minority of Americans understand and apply ideological frames of reference. This suggests that while there may be some influence of ideology on public opinion, it is not a widespread or dominant factor. It implies that most Americans do not think in terms of liberalism or conservatism when it comes to politics, and therefore the meanings of these ideologies may be too imprecise to be useful in understanding public opinion.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Polls indicate that American public opinion is
- A.
Highly informed in the sense that most citizens have a lot of fairly accurate information about politics and public affairs
- B.
Very well informed about domestic issues but not very well informed about international issues
- C.
Very well informed about international issues but not very informed about domestic issues
- D.
None of the above answers is correct
Correct Answer
D. None of the above answers is correct -
- 29.
Which of the following is the best means for judging public opinion?
- A.
A citizen's letter to his or her local paper
- B.
Lobbyists' representations to Congresspersons
- C.
Newspaper editorials in local papers
- D.
A random sample poll
Correct Answer
D. A random sample pollExplanation
A random sample poll is the best means for judging public opinion because it ensures that a diverse and representative group of individuals is surveyed. This method eliminates biases and provides a more accurate reflection of the overall population's views. Citizen's letters to local papers, lobbyists' representations to Congresspersons, and newspaper editorials may only represent a specific subset of the population or be influenced by personal agendas, making them less reliable indicators of public opinion.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Liberations are opposed to governmental intervention in:
- A.
Both the economic and social spheres
- B.
The economic but not the social sphere
- C.
The social, but not the economic
- D.
Neither the social not the economic
Correct Answer
A. Both the economic and social spheresExplanation
Liberations oppose governmental intervention in both the economic and social spheres. This means that they believe in minimal government involvement in both economic and social matters. They advocate for individual freedom and limited government control in both areas, allowing individuals to make their own economic and social choices without interference from the government.Rate this question:
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