Name: Date:
Conflict in American Political Culture
Important Elements of American Political Culture:
Liberty – right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint; including economic
Equality – state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities; equal vote, equality under the law, equal opportunity
Democracy – politicians accountable to the people
Civic Duty – serve the community
Individual Responsibility – responsible for own actions (barring disability)
Rule of Law – rules governs everyone, not arbitrary decisions
Nationalism – attachment to one’s nation
Capitalism – private owners control trade, industry, and means of production
The “American Dream” – freedom, opportunity, social mobility
Read each scenario carefully and identify two elements of American political culture in conflict for each statement.
Example: high school students can pay taxes on their incomes, but cannot vote
Conflict: civic duty (pay taxes) is in conflict with Equality (equal vote)
Example: you cannot yell “fire” in a crowded building if there is no fire.
Conflict:
Example: citizens must pay income tax every year.
Conflict:
Example: males can vote and must register for the Selective Service at 18, but cannot legally drink alcohol until they are 21.
Conflict:
Example: the government can confiscate your land to build a highway.
Conflict:
Example:
Conflict: