Overview

This chapter explains and puts into historical perspective the principles that have shaped American politics since the nation's earliest years. It explores the power and limits of these principles. Students are introduced to concepts that influence policymaking choices, including constitutionalism, democracy, capitalism, power and authority. At the end of the chapter, the "political system" explanatory model is used to provide a framework that illustrates the workings of government and to introduce the topics covered in subsequent chapters. The main points covered in this chapter are the following:

• American political culture centers on a set of core ideals--liberty, equality, self-government, individualism, diversity and unity--that serve as the people's common bond.
• Politics is the process that determines whose values will prevail in society. The play of politics in the United States takes place in the context of democratic procedures, constitutionalism and capitalism, and involves elements of majority, pluralist and elite rule.
• Politics in the United States is characterized by a number of major patterns, including a highly fragmented governing system, a high degree of pluralism, an extraordinary emphasis on individual rights and a pronounced separation of the political and economic spheres.