Exam 11: Politics and the Economy

What theory is based on the idea that the two economic systems-capitalism and socialism-will eventually adopt features of one another until there is a hybrid economic system in all societies?

-Why is it most appropriate for Figure 11.2,"Power in the United States: The Model Proposed by C. Wright Mills," to resemble a pyramid?

Discuss the sociological significance of global capitalism.

Why is the transfer of authority in societies governed by traditional and rational-legal authority more stable than those governed by charismatic leaders?

What were the two MOST successful third parties in the U.S. political system in reference to presidential elections?

The linking of the world's nations by fast communication,transportation,and increased trade has created what sociologists refer to as ________.

Discuss the biotech society and offer reasons why many people are not sold on it as being the wave of the future.

-Based on Figure 11.1,"Which Political Party Dominates?" why is the map not a good test to gauge the results of the next presidential election?

Political action committees are a threat to American democracy because they have the capability of influencing elected officials more than the voters who placed them in office.

What is the key to determining if someone will vote?

The American statesman who said,"A little rebellion now and then is a good thing...the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants." was ________.

How was the revolutionary idea of citizenship first introduced?

Provide at least two examples of ways in which the United States has adopted socialist practices through convergence theory.

What is another name for "welfare capitalism"?

How did the advent of the steam engine affect domestic and international trade?

Because the American economy is based on state capitalism,manufacturers have a totally free hand in producing and distributing whatever goods and services the market will bear.

-After looking at Table 11.1,"Who Votes for President?" what do the voting percentages suggest regarding the common characteristic to determine voter turnout for a presidential election?

The plow was to the agricultural society as the ________ was to the industrial society.

Why did Joan of Arc,Adolph Hitler,and Jesus Christ all have in common?

-Figure 11.4 "Average Hourly Earnings of U.S. Workers in Current and Constant Dollars" shows the actual average hourly income of Americans from 1970 to 2007 compared to what the hourly income would be if expressed in constant dollars. What conclusions can be drawn from the discrepancies in the "current dollar" and "constant dollar"?