Chapter 8 Chapter Overview & Learning Objectives

Political Socialization and Culture

Chapter Overview

  • Learning Objectives
  • Introduction
  • Political Culture
  • Political Socialization
  • Public Opinion
  • The Media and Politics
  • Civil Society and Non-Governmental Organizations
  • The Participation of Private Actors in the Decision-Making Process
  • Policy Communities
  • Advocacy Groups
  • Lobbying
  • Corporatism
  • Canadian Political Culture and Socialization
  • Conclusion
  • Self-Assessment Questions
  • Weblinks
  • Further Reading
  • Film and Video Clips

Learning Objectives

This chapter will help you to

  • explain why political culture is a fundamental element in any political system;
  • understand the importance of society and socialization in determining political culture and identity;
  • understand the role of education in politics;
  • explain why public opinion matters and how we measure it;
  • appreciate the media’s role in politics;
  • recognize the functions of civil society and non-governmental organizations;
  • identify the importance of interest groups and lobbying;
  • discuss the process of consultation between government and society; and
  • analyze political socialization in Canada.
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