• Unit 6: Comparing Ideology, Policy, and Decision Making

    This unit deals with ideology and decision-making tactics.  We first compare five different ideologies that shape mainstream political party platforms and governance in contemporary democratic systems (conservatism, liberalism, Christian democracy, social democracy, and environmentalism).   We then look at frameworks for understanding the policy process before discussing the ways in which policymakers garner feedback and use indecision strategically. The unit concludes with a focus on informal influences that shape government policy choices.

    Completing this unit should take you approximately 10 hours.

    • 6.1: Contemporary Mainstream Political Ideologies

    • 6.2: The Public Policy Cycle

    • 6.3: Politics beyond the Policy Process

    • Unit 6 Assessment

      • Unit 6 Multiple Choice Assessment Quiz

        Please take this assessment to check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.
      • Unit 6 Short Answer Assessment Quiz

        Please take this assessment to check your understanding of the materials presented in this unit.

        Notes:

        • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
        • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
        • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.