AP Comparative Government and Politics Flashcards: Political Values and Beliefs
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
Contrast the core difference between 'rule by law' and 'rule of law'.
Under rule by law, the law is a tool to reinforce state power, whereas under rule of law, the law serves to limit the state's power and hold it accountable.
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Contrast the core difference between 'rule by law' and 'rule of law'.
Under rule by law, the law is a tool to reinforce state power, whereas under rule of law, the law serves to limit the state's power and hold it accountable.
How would a state operating under the 'rule of law' likely address political corruption by a high-ranking official?
It would subject the official to the same laws and judicial processes as any other citizen, as the state and its agents are not above the law.
How do beliefs about social and economic equality differ between political systems?
Systems vary based on how much enforcement responsibility is given to the government, ranging from limited social protections to a comprehensive welfare state.
What is Rule of Law?
Rule of law is a political belief, common in democratic regimes, where the state is limited by and subject to the same set of rules as its citizens.
What is post-materialism?
Post-materialism refers to the social valuing of self-expression and quality of life, which often emerges after basic material needs are met.
What is Rule by Law?
Rule by law is a political belief, common in authoritarian regimes, where the state uses the law to reinforce its own authority over the citizenry.
What policy areas are citizens influenced by post-materialism likely to pressure their government to address?
Citizens with post-materialist values pressure governments to address issues like environmental protection and social and economic equality.
How do a country's political values and beliefs impact its policymaking?
Political values and beliefs frame the policy choices a government makes to address particular political problems, influencing the solutions it pursues.
An authoritarian regime uses new legislation to suppress political dissent. Is this an example of rule by law or rule of law?
This is an example of rule by law, as the state is using the law to reinforce its authority and control over citizens.
What is a 'welfare state' in the context of political beliefs?
A welfare state reflects a political belief where significant responsibility is transferred to the government to protect the health and material well-being of its citizens.