Study Guide to Accompany Understanding Government Sixth Edition

Introduction CHAPTER REVIEW Learning Objectives After studying the Introduction, you should be able to: I. Define politics and explain how economic and ideological differences result in political 2. Explain the purpose of government. 3. Understand the values and goals of democracy, how they conflict, and what makes democracy work. 4. Comment on the changing role of politics and government in American life and how government is so particularly pervasive today. Chapter Outline and Summary I. Introduction A. The purpose of this text is to explain the importance of politics and government and how it affects our lives. II. What is Politics? A. Introduction l. Although considered negatively by many, politics can be an honorable activity. 2. Politics is about ways to resolve differences without resorting to violence, 3. The differences between the desires and values of groups are at the root of the political process. B. Politics and Economics l. Groups and individuals compete over limited economic resources and government policies affecting them.