Which of the following serves as an example of centripetal forces in the United States today?

• A. Competition among state governments
• B. Political polarization between states
• C. A shared national identity and patriotism
• D. Regional economic disparities

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of centripetal forces in microeconomics and political economy. Centripetal forces are factors that unify or bring together different parts of a country or economy, promoting stability and integration.
2. Step 2: Analyze each option to determine whether it acts as a unifying force (centripetal) or a dividing force (centrifugal).
3. Step 3: Recognize that 'competition among state governments' tends to create differences and rivalry, which is a centrifugal force, not centripetal.
4. Step 4: Note that 'political polarization between states' increases division and conflict, so it is also a centrifugal force.
5. Step 5: Identify that 'a shared national identity and patriotism' promotes unity and cohesion across the country, making it a centripetal force, while 'regional economic disparities' highlight differences and can cause division, thus centrifugal.