Political Cultures in Texas

658 Words3 Pages
Political culture refers to what people believe and feel about government, and how they think people should act towards it. The concept of politcal subcultures of the state derive from the legacy of the nation including the fundamental beliefs of proper role of government, the relationship of the government to the citizens, and who should govern. To understand the relationship of a government to its people, and how those people are going to act toward that government and others, it is necessary to study what those people believe about themselves and government. Daniel Elazar found three political subculture types that are still viewed and practiced today. The political functionalities of the individualistic subculture is similar to that of America's economy, "those with the abundance of wealth get what they want." Individualists believe that government should not be concerned with creating a society with high morals, but the fuctions of the government are to meet the demands of the people; which is the "sole" purpose of the government. Also, the power of the government is to be kept in check or limited, along with minimal interference of the private activities of the people.Individualists can care less of corruption in this " political arena." According to the sum of all these beliefs, individualists hold the opinion that the main function is that the government should sustain society so that individuals continue the pursuit of their own interests. Unlike the viewpoints in the individualistic subculture that government should be limited, the moralistic subculture views the government as positive tool responsible to promote the general welfare. Therefore, Texas' state politics is to be left to the few but everyone is individually responsible. In contrast to the individualistic self-interests, moralistic subculture is one of service. Moralists hold people in
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