Pol Sci Chapter 1

The American political culture is based on certain ideals that shape its values and beliefs. These include liberty, equality, self-government, and individualism. Oligarchy, however, is not a part of the American political culture. Oligarchy refers to a system where power is concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or a small group. In contrast, the American political culture emphasizes the importance of democracy and the participation of all citizens in decision-making processes. Therefore, oligarchy is not considered an ideal in the American political culture.

The correct answer is shared political ideals. This is because national identity in America is not primarily based on ethnic kinship or religion, as the country is known for its diverse population. Additionally, while a common language may contribute to a sense of unity, it is not the main foundation of national identity. Instead, Americans often identify with their shared political ideals, such as democracy, freedom, and equality, which are central to the country's founding principles. Federal law, while important for governance, does not define national identity in the same way as shared political ideals.

Inalienable rights are rights that are inherent to individuals and cannot be taken away or denied by the government. These rights are considered fundamental and essential to human beings, and they include rights such as life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The concept of inalienable rights is a cornerstone of the United States' Declaration of Independence and is based on the belief that these rights are granted by a higher power and cannot be infringed upon by any government or authority.

The correct answer suggests that cultural beliefs are symbolic postures that reflect both ideal and real aspects of reality. This means that cultural beliefs are not completely unreal or perfect representations of reality, but rather a combination of both. They serve as symbolic expressions of what is considered ideal in a particular culture, while also acknowledging the realities of the world.

The citizens of the United States pay the lowest tax rates compared to the other countries listed.

The correct answer is that all of these answers are correct. This is because complications in the practice of America's ideals can occur for various reasons. The ideals being general principles rather than precise rules can lead to interpretation and conflicts. Additionally, these ideals can sometimes conflict with one another, further complicating their implementation. Furthermore, while they are enduring and powerful, they are just one of the many sources of political action, which can also contribute to complications in their practice.

The answer is "is a concept whose precise definition is frequently contested among American citizens" because the statement accurately reflects the reality that the American ideal of equality is often debated and interpreted differently by different individuals and groups in society. This suggests that there is no universally agreed-upon definition of equality in the United States, leading to ongoing discussions and disagreements among American citizens.