AP U.S. Government and Politics Flashcards: American Attitudes About Government and Politics
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.
How does the principle of free enterprise influence American attitudes toward economic regulation?
The belief in free enterprise generally fosters a skeptical attitude towards government regulation of the market, favoring competition and market forces to determine economic outcomes.
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How does the principle of free enterprise influence American attitudes toward economic regulation?
The belief in free enterprise generally fosters a skeptical attitude towards government regulation of the market, favoring competition and market forces to determine economic outcomes.
What is the general relationship between the core beliefs of U.S. citizens and their attitudes about government?
The core beliefs of U.S. citizens, such as individualism and rule of law, fundamentally shape their attitudes and expectations regarding the proper role and scope of the federal government.
How do different interpretations of core values affect the relationship between citizens and the federal government?
Differing interpretations, such as what constitutes 'equality of opportunity,' lead to political debates and conflicts over the appropriate level of government involvement in social and economic issues.
What is the 'rule of law'?
The rule of law is the principle that all individuals and institutions, including those in power, are equally subject to and accountable under the law.
Define the core American value of 'individualism'.
Individualism is the belief that each person has the ability to shape their own life and destiny through the choices they make, emphasizing personal responsibility.
How do core values affect the relationships that U.S. citizens have with each other?
Core values like individualism and equality of opportunity shape social expectations, fostering both a sense of competition and a framework for civic interaction among citizens.
If a powerful CEO is prosecuted for the same crime as a low-wage worker, which core American value is being upheld?
This scenario upholds the rule of law, which dictates that every person, regardless of their power or position, is accountable to the same set of laws.
A policy debate over government-subsidized healthcare often pits which two core American values against each other?
This debate often involves a conflict between individualism (emphasizing personal responsibility for health) and equality of opportunity (arguing everyone deserves a chance at good health).
Define the economic principle of 'free enterprise'.
Free enterprise is an economic system where the market, driven by competition, primarily determines prices, products, and services with limited government intervention.
What is 'equality of opportunity' as a core American value?
Equality of opportunity is the principle that all people should be given an equal chance to compete and succeed, without being hindered by arbitrary barriers.