1. Unit II: Political Beliefs and Behaviors (10-20%) ● In this unit, you will discuss (1) common belief patterns of Americans and (2) common political behaviors.

2. Political Culture - Key Terms ● Political Culture – Widely or commonly held beliefs/attitudes within a society. ( Think of them as a trend…..not just the existence of beliefs/attitudes) ● Political Socialization – The process by which citizens acquire their political beliefs. Your attitudes about your surroundings. Ex: Are you going to say the pledge? Do you believe Obama is citizen? What are your views on abortion and how will you vote because of that? 4 agents : -family -schools -religious institutions - media (be careful…selective perception) ● Political Ideology – A individual, party, group having a setof principles that provides guidance on the proper behavior of government. -role of government (how it should function) -systematic approach to governing

3. What is unique about American political culture? ● Efficacy – citizen’s belief in their ability to impact government. ● Legitimacy--(of government) citizen’s belief that the government has the right to rule. ● Individualism/limited government/American dream – the individual is responsible for finding prosperity. ● Patriotism – Rally around the flag.

4. Ideology – size of government ● Conservatism - small government on economic matters - large government on moral matters ● Liberalism -small government on moral matters - large government on economic matters ● Libertarianism ● Small government on moral matters ● Small government on economic matters

6. Trust in Government (Unit II) a story on NPRNPR Do Americans trust the government? How has trust in government changed over the years? What factors impact trust in government? What occurred in trust immediately after 9/11 & why?