Gina Smith and Mariel Jones Are Both Running for the Same

question 14

Multiple Choice

Gina Smith and Mariel Jones are both running for the same seat on the town council. Pat Johnson is voting in the town council election. Pat decides to read each candidates one-paragraph statement, but did not attend the town debate to listen to the candidates explain their positions in detail. Which of the following best describes Pat's actions?

• A) Pat displays the special-interest group effect; he figures the extra cost to him of any pet projects of either candidate will be small so he is not concerned.
• B) Pat displays the shortsightedness effect; the long-run benefits of policies will exceed the short-run costs.
• C) Pat is a victim of bureaucratic inefficiency; the candidates failed to provide sufficient information about their positions.
• D) Pat displays rational voter ignorance; the perceived extra effort to be better informed exceeds the marginal benefit of knowing more about the candidates.

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Definitions:

Social System

A structured set of relationships and roles that organize groups or societies to meet basic needs.

Government's Responsibility

The obligations and duties of a government to its citizens, including providing public services, ensuring national security, and upholding laws and rights.

Poverty

A condition characterized by severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education, and information.

Culture of Poverty

A theory suggesting that poverty creates a distinctive lifestyle and culture among the poor, characterized by certain values and behaviors that perpetuate their economic disadvantage.