AP US Government : Constitution and Government Foundations

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for AP US Government

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Pluralism

Which of these is not a concurrent power in the United States Constitution?

Possible Answers:

To regulate immigration

All of these are concurrent powers.

To levy taxes

To promote general welfare

The establishment of courts

Correct answer:

To regulate immigration

Explanation:

A concurrent power is a power shared equally by both the state and Federal governments. Concurrent powers in the Constitution are the enforcement of laws, ability to levy taxes or borrow money, spend for the promotion of general welfare, and the ability to establish courts. Immigration is regulated by the national government.

Example Question #1 : Elitism

Elite and Class Theory suggests that __________.

Possible Answers:

the wealthy in American society hold power that supersedes the American democratic process

the media tricks the American people into believing that there is a certain wealthy portion of the population that holds disproportionate levels of political power

the upper class has a vested interest in maintaining the status quo

power in American politics is divided between several competing and diverse interest groups who protect democracy for the rest of the citizenry

in American society people will vote against their economic interests because of the increased importance attached to social and environmental issues

Correct answer:

the wealthy in American society hold power that supersedes the American democratic process

Explanation:

Elite and Class Theory is a theory that attempts to explain part of modern American politics. The theory suggests that the wealthy members of American society hold a degree of power that is heavily disproportionate, and which supersedes any real participation in the American democratic process. Essentially it argues that through corporate interest groups, influence over the media, sponsored think-tanks, and campaign financing the economic elite can control the entirety of the democratic process.

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