"The national political culture is itself a synthesis of three major political subcultures which jointly inhabit the country, existing side by side or even overlapping one another," according to Daniel Elazar. Furthermore these subcultures are widespread, and over time have made it coast to coast nationally. In view of that, each individual subculture also has stronger ties to certain geographic regions of the country, oftentimes simply reflecting the migration patterns. Nonetheless, each of the three subcultures, individualistic (I), moralistic (M), and traditionalistic (T), separately endorse their own incorporation of the marketplace and commonwealth.
Elazar claims that the state of New Jersey has a primarily individualistic political culture. As defined by Elazar, an individualistic political culture emphasizes the importance of private concerns, while limiting community interference into private activities to the fullest extent possible without hindering the proper working order of the marketplace. In this culture politics is more or less viewed as a "business" which is highly competitive, offering rewards to those whom are the most talented and choose it as a career. Furthermore, politics tend to be just another means by which individuals can improve themselves socially and economically.
The state of New Jersey does tend to be dominated by liberal politics regardless of whether the politician in office represents the Republican or Democratic parties. This fact undoubtedly supports the individualistic view of the democratic order as a mere marketplace.
New Jersey is also highly touted as the countries most politically corrupt state, filled with pockets of corruption throughout -- with cities and counties that routinely churn out criminals. Do scoundrels always fill political office or is it possible that the office makes the scoundrel? Taking a bribe or dealing out a questionable contract does not always require planned malice.
