Political Theories and Democracy Concepts

The video reviews key concepts for the AP government exam, focusing on political power, legitimacy, democracy types, self-interest in politics, political change, and different views on political control. It also discusses the intentions of the Constitution's framers, emphasizing representative democracy.

What is political power primarily defined as?

• The ability to get things done within the government

• The ability to control the economy

• The ability to create laws

• The ability to influence public opinion

What does legitimacy in a political context refer to?

• The legal authority given by a state

• The popularity of a government

• The effectiveness of government policies

• The fairness of elections

How does direct democracy differ from indirect democracy?

• Direct democracy involves elected representatives making decisions.

• Indirect democracy involves citizens voting directly on laws.

• Direct democracy involves citizens voting directly on laws.

• Indirect democracy does not involve any form of voting.

In an indirect democracy, what is a potential consequence of having fewer people in power?

• Increased public participation

• Greater influence of elites

• More frequent elections

• Decreased political stability

What often triggers significant political change according to the video?

• International conflicts

• Cultural shifts

• Economic troubles

• Technological advancements

Which view suggests that politics is dominated by capitalists?

• Power elite view

• Pluralist view

• Bureaucratic view

• Class view

According to the power elite view, who primarily runs the government?

• Elected officials

• Appointed bureaucrats

• The general public

• A small group of elites

What is the pluralist view of politics?

• Politics is controlled by a single dominant group.

• Politics is influenced by competition among various groups.

• Politics is primarily driven by economic interests.

• Politics is dominated by appointed officials.

What did the framers of the Constitution intend for American democracy?

• A direct democracy with no representatives

• A monarchy with a strong central leader

• A representative democracy with elected officials

• An oligarchy controlled by a few elites

Why did the framers prefer a representative democracy over direct elections?

• They believed the public was too informed.

• They wanted to limit public participation.

• They trusted elected officials to make informed decisions.

• They wanted to avoid frequent elections.