Heimler's History - Unit 4: Core Beliefs and Political Attitudes in America

Introduction

• This unit focuses on how Americans develop political beliefs, measure those beliefs, and turn them into policy.
• Objective: Explain the relationship between core beliefs of U.S. citizens and attitudes about the role of government.
• Core beliefs are shared values that influence how Americans think about government and politics.

Core Beliefs of Americans

Five Shared Values

1. Individualism
   • Emphasis on self-reliance and independence.
   • Less community-oriented compared to Eastern cultures.
2. Equality of Opportunity
   • Belief in equal footing for all to pursue life, liberty, and happiness.
   • No special classes or hierarchies.
3. Free Enterprise
   • Preference for minimal government intervention in the economy.
   • Advocacy for laissez-faire economics.
4. Rule of Law
   • Everyone is equal under the law, no special privileges.
   • Cited by John Adams: "A government of laws, not of men."
5. Limited Government
   • Defined limits through separation of powers and checks and balances.

Conservative vs. Liberal Interpretations

Definitions

• Conservatives
  • Cherish established institutions, aim to preserve them.
  • Favor smaller government with fewer public services.
• Liberals
  • Advocate for reforms towards justice and equality.
  • Favor governmental changes to enhance equity.

Example: Women’s Rights Movement (1960s-70s)

• Conservatives: Opposed changes that threatened traditional family structures.
• Liberals: Supported changes as empowering and breaking down unjust social structures.

Interpretations of Core Values

1. Individualism
   • Conservatives: Self-centered individualism (individuals over society).
   • Liberals: Enlightened individualism (society over individuals).
2. Equality of Opportunity
   • Conservatives: Believe in meritocracy and equal starting points for all.
   • Liberals: Acknowledge meritocracy but emphasize unequal starting conditions.
3. Free Enterprise
   • Conservatives: Prefer minimal government business intervention.
   • Liberals: Support government regulations for safety and equality.
4. Rule of Law
   • Conservatives: Laws embody equality (focus on letter of the law).
   • Liberals: Acknowledge laws but focus on unequal application, especially for minorities.
5. Limited Government
   • Conservatives: Strong boundaries of federalism, less interference.
   • Liberals: Embrace government intervention for the greater good.

Conclusion

• Americans share common values, but interpretations vary between conservatives and liberals.
• Understanding these differences is key to comprehending policy debates.

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