Political System of the United States

The political system of the United States can best be described as:

• A one-party state

• A parliamentary democracy

• A two-party system

• A constitutional monarchy

What can you infer from the fact that you have to be 18 years old to register with a political party?

• You're not allowed to express political opinions before you turn 18

• You have to be 18 to vote in U.S. elections

• American politics doesn't interest young people

• Political issues are too complicated for young people to understand

Which of the following is not usually a divisive issue in American politics?

• Support for the U.S. Constitution

• The role government should play in regulating private businesses

• Whether the government should supply health care to all citizens

• Whether the U.S. Army should get involved in foreign conflicts

American citizens have a diverse array of political beliefs. What is the best synonym for "diverse array"?

• Wide range

• Long history

• Limited number

• Passionate commitment

Why do people's political beliefs often change as they get older? Choose the best answer.

• They tend to make more money as they get older, and thus support lower taxes

• They often travel to other countries as they get older, and learn about other political systems

• They tend to become less open-minded as they get older

• They gain knowledge and experience as they get older

Which of the following will probably have the largest impact on a young person's political beliefs?

• The political beliefs of her local newspaper columnists

• Her family's political beliefs

• The political beliefs of her U.S. Senators and Representatives

• The political beliefs of a bestselling author

A "healthy debate" is usually characterized by:

• Agreement on practically all issues

• Vicious attacks on other people's beliefs

• Respectful exchanges of ideas

• Forcing other people to change their minds

Which of the following is a true statement?

• Members of the Democratic Party always vote for Democratic candidates

• The average Republican voter supports every issue in the Republican Party platform

• People who do not register with a major party are usually ignorant about political issues

• People frequently cross party lines to vote for candidates who do not belong to their own parties

A political party's platform might include:

• A charismatic candidate for the U.S. Senate

• A position on an issue like gun control

• A speech about the greatness of freedom and democracy

• A large convention where members of the party gather together

What is the best synonym for "ideology"?

• Belief system

• Party affiliation

• Knowledge

• Family background