Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The process by which media or actors influence the importance placed on topics in public discourse and policymaking.

A principle stating that single-member district plurality systems tend to favor two-party systems. It explains how electoral rules influence party structures.

A stable political system where the number of viable parties matches the incentives created by the electoral system, often two in plurality systems.

The authority granted by voters to elected officials to implement their proposed policies. It legitimizes government actions based on election results.

When individuals benefit from resources or collective action without contributing to the effort or costs involved.

Anthony Giddens proposed that social structures are both the medium and outcome of social practices, emphasizing the duality of structure and agency.

A situation where an international institution or state loses credibility and support, undermining its authority.

Examining the stories behind policies to understand their meanings, contexts, and impacts.

The right of journalists and media organizations to report news without censorship or government interference.

Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or point of view.

A theory describing how mass media serves and propagates the interests of dominant elite groups.

Methods used to influence public opinion by appealing to emotions, stereotypes, or misinformation.

The networks, norms, and social trust that facilitate coordination and cooperation for mutual benefit within a society.

A situation where collective preferences can be cyclic and inconsistent, making it impossible to determine a clear winner.

Zero-sum politics views political gains by one group as losses by another, emphasizing competition over cooperation.