Heimlich's History: AP Government - Unit 4

Overview

Discussion on the ideologies of the two major political parties in America: Republicans and Democrats.
Focus on how these ideologies shape policy debates.

Definition: An interlocking set of ideas forming the basis for political decision-making.
Spectrum:
- Conservative Ideology:
  - Emphasizes traditional social structures and authority.
  - Focus on limited government, strong crime and punishment stance, states' rights over federal power.
  - Motto: "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."
- Liberal Ideology:
  - Emphasizes civil rights for marginalized groups and supports social justice movements.
  - Advocates for government involvement in public affairs, care for the poor, regulations on businesses.
  - Motto: "It is broke, so let's fix it."
Libertarian Ideology: Mentioned briefly, to be covered in another video.

Aligns with conservative ideology.
Platform Highlights:
- Economy: Belief in minimal government interference, deregulation, free market.
- Family: Supports traditional marriage and family structures.
- Social Programs: Advocates for personal responsibility, transitioning welfare from an entitlement to a benefit.
- Crime: Committed to rule of law and honoring police officers.

Aligns with liberal ideology.
Platform Highlights:
- Economic Policy: Aims to level economic playing field, end poverty, break up corporate concentration.
- Healthcare: Supports universal, affordable quality healthcare requiring government intervention.
- Social Justice: Advocates for women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, disability rights, indigenous rights.
- Preamble Quote: "Americans believe that diversity is our greatest strength..."

Do not equate the Republican Party strictly with conservative ideology, nor the Democratic Party strictly with liberal ideology.
Both parties can have members with varied ideological standings.
Understand the general leanings of each party rather than absolute associations.