Participating in Government

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public policy

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The official actions and decisions of government, made and/or shaped by officials in all three branches.

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politics

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The struggle for power to control the government and control the making of public policy.

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political ideology

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A set of beliefs or ideas about how government and society should function, including who should have power, and how that power should be used.

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The "Left"

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The end of the political spectrum that generally views government as a force for good, and is open to expanding its power and influence in people's lives. Associated with the "liberal" ideology in the USA.

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The "Right"

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The end of the political spectrum that generally views government as a necessary evil, which should be be limited in power to protect individual rights. Associated with the "conservative" ideology in the USA.

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liberal

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Describes someone closer to the political "left" in the USA, generally favoring a larger, more active government - especially at the national level.

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conservative

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Describes someone closer to the political "right" in the USA, generally favoring smaller, less involved government - especially at the national level.

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libertarian

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Describes someone who believes that the government should be as small as possible, and allow people to live and behave as they please - both socially and economically.

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authoritarian

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Describes someone who believes that the government should be large and heavily controlling in all issues - both socially and economically.

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political socialization

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The process by which we develop our political attitudes, values, and beliefs. Family - especially parents - are an especially influential part of this, though not the only one.